Spring training is underway across MLB with players getting ready for the upcoming season. While free-agent outfielder Yasiel Puig remains without a home, that may not be for long with the 29-year-old reportedly close to signing a deal.
According to Héctor Gómez, the Chicago White Sox and Colorado Rockies have emerged as the frontrunners to sign Puig. Furthermore, Puig is reportedly close to making a decision and signing with a team for the 2020 season, according to former Dodgers outfielder and coach Manny Mota.
Puig has remained a free agent throughout the offseason and now into spring training over concerns with his consistency and behavior. He got into a brawl this past season during a game and has shown lackadaisical effort at times in the past.
However, he’s also shown he can be a productive player. Puig posted a .297/.377/.423 slash line in 49 games with the Cleveland Indians and hit 22 home runs in 100 games with the Cincinnati Reds.
Puig could step in as the White Sox right fielder for the 2020 season, potentially forming a platoon with Nomar Mazara. If he signs with the Rockies, Puig could see time in right field and center field.
An All-Star in 2014, Puig remains a very talented player. If he can put it all together for a team, he could make a tremendous impact in 2020.