MLB rumors: Predicting landing spots for 4 prized shortstops in free agency
By Tim Boyle
Predicting where the MLB rumors end with the four prized free agent shortstops.
For the second straight offseason, many of the MLB rumors are dominated by free agent shortstops. This year we have Carlos Correa returning to the open market now joined by Trea Turner, Dansby Swanson, and Xander Bogaerts who chose to opt out of his deal with the Boston Red Sox.
All three bring a little something different to the table. Several teams are candidates to target more than one on this list. Others could be looking to focus on only one.
The MLB rumors about these four will continue to grab headlines. Where will each of these prized shortstops end up? Let’s make some predictions.
1) MLB rumors: Trea Turner seems like a sure thing to sign with the Phillies
Recent MLB rumors involving Trea Turner have the Philadelphia Phillies as the favorite landing spot for him. He makes a lot of sense for Philadelphia. The 29-year-old already knows Philly slugger Bryce Harper well having played alongside him in Washington. The team could certainly use him to finally answer their longtime shortstop question.
The shortstop position was a weakness for the Phillies last year. Didi Gregorius didn’t make it through the season. Rookie Bryson Stott took over duties for much of the last few weeks and into the postseason. With second base now open, the Phillies can move him there and press forward with Turner as their shortstop.
Equally as important, the Phillies gain a legitimate leadoff hitter. Kyle Schwarber isn’t ideal in that spot. A weapon of a different variety, he doesn’t walk nearly enough to warrant first-ups. Turner gets on base and steals bases as well as anyone in the league.
The Phillies could also be looking at Xander Bogaerts due in part to the connection with Dave Dombrowski. Turner seems to fit them better. He’s a true leadoff hitter. It’s something missing from their lineup. Where does this leave Bogaerts?