SS Bo Bichette to Mets 3yr/126mil
Grade: C
Bichette to the Mets doesn’t make sense, especially with the plan to start him at 3B, a position he hasn’t played. Bichette has been a solid player with a consistent bat and good power regaining his form last season before injury and a postseason comeback. The Mets were able to outbid other teams for his services with a rumored deal on the table from the Phillies, but the fit is questionable.
OF Kyle Tucker to Dodgers 4yr/240mil
Grade: B
Tucker was the #1 free agent on the board and the Dodgers were able to outbid other teams to get him with a 4yr 50mil per year deal rumored from the Mets on the table. The 60mil/yr average puts him as the #2 highest paid player per average. Tucker is coming off a good season with the Cubs after playing well with the Astros. Tucker can do everything from hitting to defense and fills a need in the outfield but got overpaid.
C J.T. Realmuto re-signs with Phillies 3yr/45mil
Grade: C-
Realmuto has been a long time Phillies player and solid defensive Catcher, but his bat and power is starting to decline. Other teams wanted him for his defense and veteran leadership, but the Phillies were able to outbid them at a slight overpay based on the age and decline.
OF Josh Lowe traded to Angels from Rays, P Brock Burke to Reds from Angels, 2B/OF Gavin Lux to Rays from Reds and P Chris Clark (prospect) to Rays from Angels
Angels Grade: C+
The Angels get Lowe who has been a very talented player with good power, but injuries have been a setback. He gives them a good replacement for OF Taylor Ward who they traded to the Orioles.
Reds Grade: B-
Burke was a solid relief pitcher last season going 7-1 and should help the Reds bullpen which struggled last season.
Rays Grade: C+
The Rays get a replacement in Lux for 2B Brandon Lowe who they traded. Lux is coming off a good season as a consistent bat with limited power and versatility to play 2B and OF. Clark still needs some work, but the Rays have developed pitchers so he should get called up eventually.
P Ranger Suarez to Red Sox 5yr/130mil
Grade: A-
Ranger Suarez was one of the top Pitchers on the market. He has proven to be a solid #2 or #3 starter and a proven postseason performer. Suarez has been known to get off to hot starts, but injuries have slowed him down midseason. He gives the Red Sox a deep starting rotation and another left-hander; he may be able to rest more in this system. At age 30, this contract should provide good value.
