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10 MLB players who could use a change of scenery
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10 MLB players who could use a change of scenery

The MLB offseason brings many new opportunities for players who are traded to new teams. These 10 players would likely benefit from such a move.

Chris Archer, SP, Pirates

The Pirates traded three top prospects to Tampa Bay for Archer in 2018, putting the pressure on the right-hander to perform. He hasn't delivered, with the worst season of his career in 2019 that included multiple IL stints and a 5.19 ERA. Pittsburgh will have a new coaching staff next season, but Archer might be better off elsewhere given the rebuilding Pirates roster.

Orlando Arcia, SS, Brewers

A former top prospect, Arcia has struggled to regain the form he showed in 2017. After his struggles over the last two seasons, the Brewers acquired Luis Urias from the Padres, who is likely to open the year as Milwaukee's starting shortstop. It could be best for team and player if the Brewers turn the page on Arcia this offseason.

Jay Bruce, 1B/OF, Phillies

Bruce had 14 home runs in 47 games played with Seattle when he was traded to the Phillies last season. He struggled in a part-time role, posting a .745 OPS, and he doesn't have a clear spot on Philadelphia's roster next season with Rhys Hoskins at first base and the corner outfield spots also spoken for. While Bruce might not be a starting-caliber player anymore, he can help a team in the AL.

Dylan Bundy, SP, Orioles

The fourth-overall pick in the 2011 draft, Bundy had promising seasons in 2016 and 2017 but has regressed considerably since then. Part of his problem has been keeping the ball in the park, and Camden Yards isn't conducive to his extreme flyball rate. A larger home ballpark and move to the National League would be helpful.

Tyler Chatwood, P, Cubs

Chatwood's three-year, $38 million contract that he signed with the Cubs in 2018 has been a disaster through two seasons, with the hard-throwing right-hander pitching out of the pen for most of last season. He still has the talent to be a viable starter if he can throw strikes, but it remains to be seen if a competitive team like the Cubs is willing to give him the chance. Approaching the final year of his deal, Chatwood would be well-served to move elsewhere.

Zack Collins, C, White Sox

The 10th pick in the 2016 draft, Collins was seen as Chicago's possible catcher of the future until it signed Yasmani Grandal. Collins' bat tool far exceeds his defense at this point, but he might not have enough hitting ability to start at another spot. A patient, rebuilding team would be a good spot for Collins.

Garrett Hampson, 2B, Rockies

Hampson lost the starting second base job to Ryan McMahon last spring and served as a utilityman for most of the year. He didn't see significant at-bats until September. During that month, Hampson posted a .903 OPS, showing much of the ability that he displayed in the minors. With top prospect Brendan Rodgers also looking for at-bats at second base in Colorado, Hampson's best opportunity is with a different organization.

Nomar Mazara, RF, Rangers

Mazara arrived to the majors as a hot prospect just before his 21st birthday in 2016, hitting 20 home runs in his rookie season. However, his home run power hasn't grown much since then, and he's yet to hit more than 20 homers through four major league campaigns. Mazara was mentioned in trade rumors last year and could benefit from a new voice as he enters his age 25 season.

David Price, SP, Red Sox

Price's stay in Boston has been eventful. He has a 3.84 ERA in four seasons since signing a seven-year, $217 million contract with the Red Sox in 2016, but he's missed time frequently with injuries and had multiple fights with the media. Playing baseball in Boston isn't for everyone, and Price might welcome an exit if another team is willing to take his contract.

Dominic Smith, 1B/OF, Mets

A natural first baseman, Smith was bypassed in the Mets organization last year by Pete Alonso. Smith was able to find playing time in the outfield, but he didn't exactly look like a natural fit. While he proved he could hit in the majors last year, Smith probably needs a spot at first base or as a designated hitter. That won't happen anytime soon with the Mets.

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