Major League Baseball’s winter meetings should commence this coming Sunday, and all 30 clubs will be actively trying to build a championship-caliber team, either in the short term or long term. Teams will target specific players who fit their club best, some realistic and some not. Each team’s priority lists are in place by now, so let's take a look at the top target(s) and fallback options for each of them:
American League
Status: Contender
Top target: Mark Trumbo
The Orioles would like to bring back free-agent outfielder Mark Trumbo after he led the league in home runs with 47. Trumbo would like to return to Baltimore, as he loved both the city and playing half his games at Camden Yards. However, he’ll check the market to maximize an important payday for him. The O’s definitely need a corner outfielder, so if they can’t re-sign Trumbo, they’ll find another one either via trade or free agency, with a preference of a left-handed hitter with strong on-base percentage skills if they can’t bring back Trumbo’s right-handed power bat.
Fallback options: Ian Desmond, Dexter Fowler, Michael Saunders, Jay Bruce, Angel Pagan, Carlos Gomez
Status: Division favorite
Top target: Carlos Beltran
The Red Sox are looking for a left-handed hitter to replace the retired David Ortiz at DH, and switch-hitting Carlos Beltran would be a perfect fit. He’s still productive and would be willing to sign a short-term deal, which best fits the Red Sox’s plans. The Sox are also looking for setup relievers, but never count them out if they can make a blockbuster that could land a top-of-rotation starter like the White Sox’s Chris Sale or the Tigers’ Justin Verlander.
Fallback options: Jose Abreu, Victor Martinez, Carlos Gonzalez, Eric Hosmer, Pedro Alvarez, Jay Bruce