X

Have feedback / suggestions? Let us know!

MLB

MLB Rumors: Updated Top 5 Landing Spots For Nori Aoki In 2015

By @real_johnshea

MLB Rumors: Updated Top 5 Landing Spots For Nori Aoki In 2015

Nori Aoki Kansas City Royals
Getty Images

Nori Aoki isn't considered one of the premier outfielders rumored to be available this offseason, but the Japanese native could provide a spark for a contender in 2015. The 32-year-old veteran is arbitration eligible for the first time in his career, which could prompt the Kansas City Royals to pull the trigger on a trade involving the fourth-year player. Aoki owns a solid .287 career batting average in three full seasons at the big league level.

5. Kansas City Royals

Nori Aoki Kansas City Royals
Getty Images

5. Kansas City Royals

Nori Aoki Kansas City Royals
Getty Images

Despite rumors surrounding a possible deal involving Aoki, the Kansas City Royals shouldn't feel pressured to make a trade. Aoki could earn as much as $ 5 million in arbitration next season, which theoretically makes him a viable trade candidate, considering the Royals' mid-market payroll. Kansas City recently refused Billy Butler's one-year option and doesn't appear to be willing to spend this offseason.

4. San Francisco Giants

San Francisco Giants
Getty Images

4. San Francisco Giants

San Francisco Giants
Getty Images

Although the San Francisco Giants haven't been directly linked to Aoki, the defending World Champions have an obvious need for a left fielder. The Giants have been connected to most of the big names on the open market, including Cuban outfielder Yasmani Tomas, who recently signed with the Arizona Diamondbacks. But they could potentially explore trade options, which would make Aoki a possibility.

3. Houston Astros

Houston Astros
Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports

3. Houston Astros

Houston Astros
Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports

The Houston Astros need to beef up their payroll at some point in the near future if they're going to become legitimately competitive. Houston could explore the possibility of adding players under club control this offseason, like Aoki. The current Royals outfielder has demonstrated an ability to maintain consistency and would supply the Astros with solid outfield defense as well as a high on-base percentage.

2. Cincinnati Reds

Cincinnati Reds
Getty Images

2. Cincinnati Reds

Cincinnati Reds
Getty Images

The Cincinnati Reds have been rumored to have interest in Aoki, according to Jon Heyman of CBS Sports. The Royals' interest in veteran free agent Torii Hunter may indicate that Kansas City is willing to part with the 32-year-old outfielder, and Cincinnati is apparently ready to snag him. Aoki would serve as the Reds' primary left fielder if he were to make the move to Cincinnati.

1. Detroit Tigers

Detroit Tigers
Getty Images

1. Detroit Tigers

Detroit Tigers
Getty Images

The Detroit Tigers have some interest in retaining Hunter but could soon look to alternative options. According to MLB Trade Rumors, Aoki could eventually land a contract in the realm of two years and $ 32 million, which prices him outside of the Royals' ideal range. The Tigers have recently demonstrated a willingness to spend, as indicated by the four-year contract they handed down to Victor Martinez and the acquisition of David Price.

Share Tweet
Trending Now on