3 potential landing spots for Leonys Martin
Since 2013, Leonys Martin has been the seventh-best defensive outfielder in all of baseball by the rate version of Ultimate Zone Rating.
However, due to early-season difficulties at the plate - as well the strong play of Mitch Haniger and Jarrod Dyson - the former Seattle Mariners outfielder could find himself unemployed after being designated for assignment Sunday.
Martin will have to clear waivers without being claimed by another team to remain within the Mariners' system, though he'd also need to accept a stint in the minors. Any team that claims Martin would be on the hook for the remainder of his $4.8 million salary.
Of course, teams likely aren't crawling over themselves to contact Martin. Nevertheless, there are some teams who could absolutely use the defensive acumen of Martin, who is still just 29 years old.
The Favorite - Pittsburgh Pirates
Following the suspension of Starling Marte, the Pirates might find themselves looking for outfield depth outside of the organization. While Pittsburgh has some internal options, signing Martin could be a good low-risk play that prevents the premature promotion of Austin Meadows.
Sliding Andrew McCutchen to center field is certainly a scary proposition following his disastrous 2016 campaign, and a Martin signing could grant the Pirates flexibility in their outfield once again. Furthermore, Gregory Polanco still seems to be struggling following a groin ailment, so adding a fourth outfielder is likely in the team's best interests.
The Middleman - San Francisco Giants
By no means should the Giants be considered favorites to add Martin, but the team has desperately needed outfield help since they decided against re-signing Angel Pagan. Of course, what seemed to at least partially play Pagan out of San Francisco - reports that he wasn't popular the clubhouse - almost certainly won't follow Martin around. Mariners manager Scott Servais told Greg Johns of MLB.com that Martin is indeed a well-liked figure.
By WAR, the Giants have the worst outfield in all of baseball, relying on less-than-ideal options in Aaron Hill, Chris Marrero, and Gorkys Hernandez following an injury to Jarrett Parker. If San Francisco wants to stay in contention - especially after the injury to Madison Bumgarner - improving its most dire need seems natural.
The Dark Horse - Kansas City Royals
Yes, the Royals have one of the best center fielders in all of baseball in Lorenzo Cain. Still, Cain is on an expiring contract, and, if they find themselves out of contention following a 7-10 start, the fire sale could be on.
In the meantime, Martin would act as a great fourth outfielder to replace, ironically, Dyson. Whit Merrifield is currently manning right field for the Royals, despite traditionally being an infielder. If he starts to falter defensively, the Royals don't have a whole lot of options - and Martin seems more than adequate.
(Photos courtesy: Action Images)