"Anthony Santander is 3 years younger than Teoscar Hernandez" - MLB sportscaster explores best alternative if Mets miss out on Juan Soto
Anthony Santander and Teoscar Hernandez are free agents this offseason and would be good alternatives to Juan Soto according to MLB sportscaster Evan Roberts.
While the New York Mets have made Soto their priority for the winter, Roberts believes Santander and Hernandez are the next best options. On the Rico Brogna podcast, Roberts explored the Mets' free agent options at right field:
"What if they don't sign Juan Soto? To me, there's only two other outfield options that are borderline All-Star.
"Number one is Teoscar Hernandez, who became very popular in Los Angeles and was a hero of the postseason. ... Over the last three years, he has proven to be one of the more reliable, solid sluggers in the sport. He is not Juan Soto, but he would be a major upgrade in the outfield.
"The other guy is Anthony Santander. He is 3 years younger than Hernandez, he is also a switch-hitter, he's also coming off a phenomenal season with 44 home runs last year. ... I'm also hoping that Santander is going to build even more off of last year."
Hernandez is coming off a World Series-winning season where was a integral part of a star-studded Dodgers lineup. He delivered in the regular season as well as the playoffs. Moreover, he has been a consistent performer over the last three years with the Mariners and the Blue Jays.
Meanwhile, Anthony Santander is coming off an impressive season with the Orioles, where he made his first All-Star appearance and won his first Silver Slugger award. After eight seasons in Baltimore, he's another exciting right fielder who's available in the market.
Despite the fact that the New York Mets will likely offer Juan Soto the biggest contract this winter, it remains to be seen where the Dominican will sign. If they don't sign him.
MLB analyst backs Anthony Santander to receive huge pay day this offseason
Former Baltimore Orioles outfielder Anthony Santander has been backed MLB analyst Keith Law to attract a huge contract this winter.
On the Foul Territory podcast, analyst Law said that Santander is one of the one of the players who will get paid more than people expect:
"I think he might end up overpaid relative to what he produces."
According to Law, once Juan Soto signs with a team, other MLB teams will turn to Santander as the next best option. As a result, he expects the outfielder to get paid well after putting up a 44-home run season.