Why 5 players took pay cuts in 2016

The prospect of free agency for most is a gateway to landing an increased payday; the culmination of many years of hard work building toward your next contract.

Things don't always go according to plan, however.

This winter, numerous different factors have gone into negotiations that have seen players misjudge their own market, or accept less money in order to land in a location that better suits their needs.

After Ian Desmond became the final big-name free agent to sign Sunday, here's a look at five players who took pay cuts this season:

Ian Desmond, Rangers

2015 salary: $11 million
2016 contract: 1 year, $8 million

Why they took a cut: Desmond proved betting on yourself doesn't always pay off. The 30-year-old turned down a seven-year, $107-million extension prior to the 2014 season and settled for a one-year, $8-million deal with the Rangers. Desmond rejected a $15.8-million qualifying offer from the Nationals in November, and his attachment to draft-pick compensation handcuffed his market.

Was it the right move: Desmond can't focus on what he lost after a series of poor decisions, but rather hope a change to left field proves successful, while the added defensive versatility increases his market next season.

Dexter Fowler, Cubs

2015 salary: $9.5 million
2016 contract: 1 year, $8 million + option

Why they took a cut: The Orioles camp was buzzing after it was believed Dexter Fowler was joining the club on a three-year deal earlier this week. Those reports were premature, however, as the outfielder shockingly showed up to the Cubs' spring training facility Thursday to announce his return. Fowler cost himself more guaranteed money on a pair of occasions this winter, but was able to remain in his preferred Chicago after declining the qualifying offer.

Was it the right move: Coming off a career-year in which he clubbed 17 homers and swiped 20 bases, Fowler hit free agency on a high. The market was deep with outfield options, however, but another strong season could see Fowler earn a better deal next winter than he would have this year.

Jimmy Rollins, White Sox

2015 salary: $11 million
2016 contract: Minor-league deal

Why they took a cut: With a desire to remain at shortstop, Jimmy Rollins reportedly rejected two guaranteed offers of more money that asked him to serve in a super-utility role. The 37-year-old took a minor-league deal from the White Sox in order to compete for the starting shortstop job.

Was it the right move: The White Sox are likely Rollins' last opportunity to play shortstop every day. The 16-year veteran has made close to $100 million during his playing career so it makes sense for him to make a decision based on happiness over money.

Jason Heyward, Cubs

2015 salary: $7.8 million
2016 contract: 8 years, $184 million

Why they took a cut: Jason Heyward isn't likely to struggle paying his bills after inking the second-largest contract ever awarded to an outfielder, but the 26-year-old did leave significant money on the table to play in Chicago. Heyward reportedly received a pair of $200-million offers from the Nationals and Cardinals that assured more guaranteed money. The Cubs emergence as World Series contenders lured Heyward to the Windy City.

Was it the right move: Heyward took advantage of his market and rather than causing a bidding war, received a fair deal while also landing in his preferred spot.

Doug Fister, Astros

2015 salary: $11.4 million
2016 contract: 1 year, $8 million

Why they took a cut: Despite entering the offseason seeking a two-year, $22-million deal, it was reported that several teams were weary of Fister's medical results and the idea of signing a minor-league deal was kicked around. The opportunity to land guaranteed money with a good team might have been the best way for Fister to reestablish his value.

Was it the right move: Mike Pelfrey, who is the same age and put up much worse numbers than Fister, was able to land a two-year, $16-million deal with the Tigers. If there were significant concerns about Fister's health, than the deal with the Astros - which includes $5 million worth of incentives - was the right call.