Why Giants signing Marcell Ozuna in MLB free agency would make sense

Share

It seems like the Giants enter every offseason in search of a power-hitting outfielder. Could this be the winter when they finally land one?

While San Francisco has its own pending free agents to consider, the Giants surely will be looking for ways to upgrade their roster. MLB Trade Rumors predicts they'll sign outfielder Marcell Ozuna, which surely would be a step in the right direction.

Ozuna, 28, spent the last two seasons with the Cardinals, and is coming off a year in which he slashed .241/.328/.472 with 29 home runs and 89 RBI over 130 games with St. Louis. He also was a two-time All-Star and won a Gold Glove over his five seasons with the Marlins. 

MLB Trade Rumors forecasts Ozuna to sign a three-year, $45 million contract with San Francisco. While his production dipped with the Cardinals, his Statcast numbers provide reason for optimism.

"Ozuna’s average exit velocity and hard-hit percentage were both in the 93rd percentile or better this year, suggesting that his current skill level will produce better results in the future," MLB Trade Rumors wrote. "Plus, he turns 29 this month, so he’s young enough to present some upside. Assuming Ozuna turns down his qualifying offer from the Cardinals, he’s expected to sign elsewhere. The Giants, Marlins, Reds, Padres, Indians, Tigers, and Royals could make sense."

[RELATED: Why MLB's awards season won't be worth watching for Giants]

As mentioned, Ozuna was given a qualifying offer by the Cardinals, so if the Giants signed him, they would have to forfeit a draft pick to St. Louis. However, it would not be San Francisco's first-round selection, which comes in at No. 13 overall.

Contact Us