After a terrific rebound season in 2015, free-agent first baseman Chris Davis is in line to get a big contract this winter from teams seeking big-time power.
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Davis Reportedly on Cardinals' Radar
Friday, Nov. 20
According to Jon Paul Morosi of Fox Sports, the St. Louis Cardinals "have had discussions" with Davis' agent Scott Boras recently.
Morosi adds the Cardinals "are intrigued by Davis' ability to play first base, third base, right field and left field." The 29-year-old has primarily played first base and DH in recent years, but he did play right field more in 2015, including a 16-game streak from June 30-July 22.
The Cardinals, who won 100 games during the regular season before getting eliminated by the Chicago Cubs in the National League Division Series, certainly understand the value of depth and versatility after key offensive players like Matt Adams and Matt Holliday missed a combined 191 games last year.
While traditionally not big spenders in free agency, the Cardinals need to bolster an offense that finished 24th in runs scored last year and is facing the possibility of losing Jason Heyward to free agency. Morosi's report notes the team will be willing to invest "heavily" thanks to additional revenue from a new local television deal.
Davis has his limitations as a hitter, striking out 208 times in 2015, but he hit 53 homers in 2013 and 47 in 2015 for the Baltimore Orioles. He's a patient hitter who has posted on-base percentage totals over .360 two of the last three years.
Power is a precious commodity in MLB with pitching and defense ruling the sport at this moment. Davis isn't a flawless player, but at just 29 years old with two very successful seasons in the last three years, he's got a lot of upside for teams seeking offense this winter.
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