The Big MLB FA Question..Where will Josh Hamilton play?

[SFP]

He's asking for a ton but I'd be surprised if the market will match his demand. I'm betting it is better than 50% chance he returns to Texas and 25% chance NY Yankees offers him the money he wants. I can't see anyone else outside of Boston perhaps that are in a position to so.

Too me the real question should be who will win the bidding for Zack Greinke? If anyone watched the WS you would have seen really good pitching beats good hitting.

[Da Coach]

Here are several different writer's lists of the top 50 free agents in MLB-

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2012/writers/ben_reiter/11/01/reiter-50-josh-hamilton-zack-greinke-free-agents/?xid=si_mostpopular

http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2012/10/2013-top-50-free-agents-with-predictions-1.html

http://hardballtalk.nbcsports.com/2012/11/02/2003-top-111-free-agents-the-top-50/

http://www.sportstalkflorida.com/top-50-mlb-free-agents/

[Beninator]

I don't think that Hamilton will end up with the Yankees. My guess is that he either returns to the Rangers or a team will step in at the last minute and pick him up similar to the Tigers acquiring Prince Fielder last year. SFP, I agree with you that Greinke will be most pursued free agent this year. I heard on the radio this morning that Hamilton is looking for a $175 million contract. IMHO, a guaranteed contract like that is too much for a person with Hamilton's issues, injury history, and for someone who during the last part of the season was expanding his strike zone. Should be an interesting off season!

[Da Coach]

I don't see any team paying that much or giving 7 years (Hamilton is reportedly asking for 7 years/$175 million) to Josh Hamilton like has become common with some recent top free agents. He has well publicized issues that no team will be willing to risk such a long term contract at that much money.

[Future Walk-On]

What about the Cubs giving him $500,000,000,000 for 25 years?

[SFP]

I don't see any team paying that much or giving 7 years (Hamilton is reportedly asking for 7 years/$175 million) to Josh Hamilton like has become common with some recent top free agents. He has well publicized issues that no team will be willing to risk such a long term contract at that much money.

Could happen with a few stipulations in the contract. The problem is more to me where he wants to play. Only 3-4 teams could afford that contract and they are big market teams with very demanding obnoxious fans. I'm sure someone will offer him a 5 year contract with an average a bit over $25 million a year.