5 Bold MLB Offseason Moves
1. Justin Upton to the Baltimore Orioles
With Nelson Cruz jumping ship to Seattle and the Blue Jays and Red Sox both already dramatically improving their rosters, the 2014 AL East champs are on the hunt for a power bat. Cue in the Braves' Justin Upton. Atlanta has already been avid in trying to move the younger Upton brother so a move up north makes sense for the Orioles. Only problem is, who would Baltimore part with to ensure this deal gets made?
2. Yoenis Cespedes to the San Diego Padres
It's hard to label the reigning Home Run Derby champ a journeyman this early into his major league career, but the Cuban defector could be looking at his 3rd team within a year. San Diego is looking to upgrade a struggling offense and Boston is trying to do the same to their pitching staff. Each has what the other wants.
3. Melky Cabrera to the Cincinnati Reds
As heavy of a burden it would be in taking on Cabrera's contract, the Reds need the offensive production. Cincinnati does not want to part with their tremendous pitching staff as anything of the like will have thoughts of rebuilding. With the Reds hosting this year's All-Star festivities, they would sure like to be in the conversation of a pennant once the Midsummer Classic rolls around.
4. Marlon Byrd to the Kansas City Royals
Kansas City needs a right-handed power bat, and an affordable one at that as the back-end of the bullpen will be pretty expensive by the time the season kicks off. Even though Marlon Byrd will be 37 this year, he's a relatively cheap addition to a club that lacked the long ball. They may have to part with a prospect or two but that "win-now" mentality is still alive and well in Kansas City after coming oh so close this past year.
5. Chase Headley to the Los Angeles Dodgers
As far as the free agent market goes, quality third-basemen are hard to come by. LA's current hot corner man is Juan Uribe, however, his glovework remains suspect and his health is always an issue. Headley would be an upgrade in both regards, as well as being younger with an above average bat. The Dodgers are not afraid to spend money, this we all know. But can this acquisition ensure a deep playoff run? It's surely a good start.
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