First off, I’m not going to pretend that I knew anything about Seiya Suzuki prior to last week. BUT since it was announced that he would be posted for MLB teams to court, I’ve done quite the dive on the talented Japanese outfielder.
If there’s video of him on the internet, I’ve watched it. If there’s an article that mentions him, I’ve read it. If there’s a player comp that’s been made, I’ve seen it.
I’m not claiming to be a Seiya Suzuki Specialist (say that three times fast), but I am confident that I have a firm seat at the table of discussion.
But why are you reading this article on a Japanese outfielder that is available for every ball club in Major League Baseball?
Because our Atlanta Braves have been linked to Suzuki & they’ve been reported to be atop the list of possible suitors.
Seiya vs The Field
Among center fielders, Seiya is the best available this offseason. Available doesn’t necessarily mean “free agent”, as you’ll read in this paragraph. From what I’ve seen on Seiya he has the most power, except maybe Byron Buxton. He’s a more complete hitter than anyone, except maybe Bryan Reynolds. And he’s without a doubt, the best defensive center fielder available.
Now I’m going to tell you why he’s the better option than those two guys mentioned above (which are both under contract for 2022) & the entire crop of this year’s free agents.
Byron Buxton: too injury-prone, only 1 year of team control left, will be wildly expensive to retain past 2022.
Bryan Reynolds: would take a massive trade package to pry him from Pittsburgh’s cold, rebuilding, cellar-dwelling hands.
The Rest: are either older than 30, struggled severely for a substantial length of time in Major League Baseball, or is Odubel Herrera. NO THANKS.
The two-time Gold Medalist could really cement Atlanta as a favorite to repeat as World Series champions.
Here’s why…