When scouting services and writers begin their winter reports on the free agent market, they will gravitate toward the big names like Josh Hamilton or Zach Greinke.
But probably the most valuable free agent on the market is White Sox catcher A.J. Pierzynski.
AJ had another excellent season. He hit .278, 27 HR, 77 RBI. He has a career fielding percentage of .995. He calls an excellent game; he makes the pitching staff better. He also is like having a second manager on the field. He has one of the strongest baseball IQs in the game.
He is nearing the end of his career. At age 35, he had a very good season with the White Sox. He will probably be looking for a two or three year contract. He made $8 million last season; he could get a hefty raise since power hitting, good fielding catchers are so RARE in major league baseball.
If the Rangers cannot re-sign Mike Napoli, Pierzynski would be a massive upgrade from Geo Soto. The Rangers have the money to spend to shore up their team for another play off run. Depending on how hurt Tigers catcher Alex Avila is, Detroit is another possible suitor. The Braves Brian McCann just had shoulder surgery. He will be out for probably most of 2013. Atlanta is another contender in need of a quality catcher.
So Pierzynski is the most "valuable" free agent on the market this off season for a contender based upon his position and his leadership qualities.
