MLB Rumors: Yasiel Puig Career Remains In Limbo, Teams Unwilling To Take Risk

KEY POINTS

Puig is still a big name in witing in the free agent market
Puig may have to work his way back to bigger deals
Several teams could use the Cuban outfielder

Yasiel Puig is still without a team heading into the MLB season and most are left puzzled. Although he has had his share of problems in the past years, his talent is undoubtedly hard to overlook. His last stint was with the Cleveland Indians but it appears the team decided to move in a different direction. There are several teams who could use the Cuban baseball player but surprisingly nothing has gained ground.

Puig played for the Cincinnati Reds and the Cleveland Indians during the 2019-20 MLB season. To his credit, he hit .267/.327/.458 with 24 home runs, 84 RBI, 76 runs scored, and 19 stolen bases in 611 plate appearances, NBC Sports reported. He holds the distinction of being one of only seven players to hit at least 24 home runs and swipe at least 19 bases. For someone who has a good mix of speed and power, it is certainly a mystery why no team has come running to sign him.

There are several teams who could use the 29-year-old outfielder. Among the teams mentioned by Radio.com include the Boston Red Sox, Chicago White Sox, Pittsburgh Pirates, Seattle Mariners, and the St. Louis Cardinals. The Red Sox seem plausible after dealing away Mookie Betts. The White Sox were allegedly frontrunners but squeezing in another outfielder could create problems.

There is no telling why Puig is being left out with a lot of MLB transactions already done. However, there are critics who feel that it could be a case of the Cuban asking for a high price and a long-term contract. With time running out, it appears Puig may have to settle for a short-term deal and prove why he deserves one. The Athletic suggests it may be best for Puig to consider a "pillow contract" and work his way into being offered a multi-year deal.

Aside from the Red Sox, the Miami Marlins and Colorado Rockies have been linked to the MLB All-Star. But with none of them making progress, it is practically an open race to sign him. With the clock ticking, Puig may find himself still waiting for a chance this coming MLB season. Hence, the likely scenario would be him to be in the sidelines once the first pitch is officially thrown.