Free-agent MLB outfielder Gerardo Parra has narrowed down his desired teams to three as he prepares for the next phase of his career.
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Agent Says Parra Wants 3-Year Contract
Monday, Jan. 11
Patrick Saunders of the Denver Post passed along the details regarding Parra's demands, adding the Colorado Rockies are among the three clubs the 28-year-old is considering. Jose Mijares, Parra's agent, added he hopes to have a decision "within the next few days."
Parra's Strong All-Around Game Enticing to Prospective Teams
Parra played for the Milwaukee Brewers and Baltimore Orioles last season and batted .291 with 14 home runs and 51 RBI.
Baltimore traded for Parra in August as a means of upgrading its outfield and the productivity of its batting lineup. It may well turn out to be a short-term rental, as it is unclear whether the Orioles are among the finalists for Parra's services.
MLB.com's Bill Ladson reported earlier in January the Washington Nationals were interested in acquiring Parra. There's a clear connection there since Nationals general manager Mike Rizzo gave Parra his first professional contract in 2004.
In addition to being a fine hitter, Parra is a two-time Gold Glove Award recipient and has proved to be capable of playing all three outfield positions during the course of his career. Such a solid all-around player is seldom available, so Parra has plenty of leverage when it comes to negotiations.
The only team specified among Parra's finalists as of now is Colorado, which could certainly use a player of his caliber. The Rockies play in a hitter-friendly park, which may see Parra soar to new heights at the plate.
More importantly, when opponents feast on Colorado pitching, as they've often done lately—the Rockies ranked 30th in quality starts and team ERA in 2015—Parra can help the cause defensively in a big way. But if Colorado pays Parra, it had better find some pitching upgrades as well.
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