Updated 1-2-07
Today we take a look at the first basemen available as free agents after the 2006 season. These are players who I think are actually capable of starting regularly at first base. Aubrey Huff and Darin Erstad – I don’t think they’ll end up at 1B next year.
Phil Nevin – He made $10MM this season. The Rangers traded him to the Cubs and Nevin responded with an .832 OPS as Derrek Lee’s replacement. Things didn’t go so well after the Cubs traded him to Minnesota, however. A long shot to start for anyone next year.
Craig Wilson – Wilson hit .251/.314/.446 in his contract year. He made just $3.5MM and will be only 29 next year. Wilson can play catcher, first base, and the outfield corners. He didn’t do a thing for the Yankees and could be had cheaply. The Orioles are having discussions with Wilson’s agent.
A very weak crop. Wilson could be the #1 pick because of his age, price, skills, and versatility. Teams with holes may try to trade market, which could contain Mark Teixeira, Todd Helton, and Richie Sexson.
