Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images
*PREDICTION*
As the MLB offseason continues on, teams all across the league seem eager to make some moves toward real World Series contention. Even with the potential of a lockout coming down the line, we could still see a lot of movement take place in free agency and via trade.
The outfielder market in free agency seems to be very strong this offseason, and teams may be able to land some talented guys. One of the better names on the open market this winter is Harrison Bader, who split time between the Minnesota Twins and Philadelphia Phillies last year.
Bader had a strong season between the two squads, hitting .277 with 17 home runs and 54 runs batted in. But his time in Philadelphia was special, seeing him .305/.361/.463 down the stretch.
The veteran outfielder performed very well alongside the other stars in the Phillies lineup, and his numbers drastically increased with it. Philadelphia has reportedly wanted to keep Bader around, but due to the team having other players in free agency to deal with, it could see him go elsewhere.
In addition to his bat, Bader is a very good defensive player as well, having won a Gold Glove a few years ago. The only concern around Bader is that he has dealt with some injury problems during his career, but if he is healthy, he is a steal of a player.
Bader could be one of the better options for teams that don’t want to spend at the top of the free agent market, and this could land him a very nice contract this offseason. His talent is there among some of the better outfielders, and he could be a real game-changer for any club in 2026 and beyond.
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Kansas City Royals Will Sign Harrison Bader
One team that has been rumored to be involved in the sweepstakes for Bader is the Kansas City Royals, who want to add a few outfielders to the mix this winter. Bader could be the perfect addition for this team, especially since Kansas City will likely be priced out at the top of the market.
Adding Bader to the mix would not only increase this team’s overall production on offense, but it would help Bobby Witt Jr. as well. Putting someone like Bader next to him in the lineup could offer Witt Jr. some protection, potentially helping his numbers increase, also.
Kansas City has to take advantage of this window right now, and this team has the core in place to make it happen. But how aggressive this front office will be this offseason remains to be seen.
Bader could be one of the stronger outfielder moves that the Royals can make, especially considering that he isn’t going to cost top dollar to sign. The veteran could be a sneaky signing for this club, and the team could reap the benefits for the next few years as they try to go after a World Series title.