Cleveland Indians: 5 realistic free agents worth targeting for 2020

5. Starlin Castro, 2B

Starlin Castro would be my No. 1 option, as he hit .270 with 22 home runs for the Miami Marlins.

He’s a realistic option until he isn’t, meaning the Indians would need to get some breaks in the market to help clear the way for someone like Castro.

It’s not like Cleveland is going to win free agency on the first day, throwing a bunch of money at targeted players. It’s the front offices MO to let things shake out and sign guys later in the winter once it becomes clear they’re not going to get the multi-year contract they were expecting.

Of the 19 players to play at least 700 inning at second base, FanGraphs rated Castro as the ninth best defensive player at the position. It was surprising to see Jason Kipnis was third in this department.

Castro provides offense, and he’s decent enough in the field, but it is concerning that his on-base percentage (.300) is only slightly higher than his average. He provides pop and bats from the right-side of the plate though, which offer a new look from the left-handed hitting Kipnis.

Honorable mention

This town love a comeback. That said, don’t rule out Jason Kipnis returning to this team at the right price. The Tribe turned down his $16 million option for next season, but if they could get him back for $4-$8 million, the move should be seriously considered.

As mentioned, Kipnis rated third in FanGraphs defensive metrics. He hit 17 homers in season that was cut short to injury, and he hit 18 in 2018. He possesses power and can play defense, a good combination in today’s era.

Again, the market will determine everything for the Indians, who many expect will be reactive to the moves made by other clubs.