One particular bat on the free agent market is Joc Pederson, a two-time All-Star with an .811 OPS across 11 big league seasons and 1,272 games. Pederson’s consistent production, paired with his ability to play all three outfield positions and designated hitter, makes him an attractive asset for clubs seeking a reliable, middle-of-the-order hitter. Notably, Pederson’s 2022 campaign was a resounding success, as he mashed 23 home runs and tallied 70 RBI while slashing .274/.353/.521. If he can recapture that form, Pederson has the potential to be a bargain signing for his next team, providing substantial value on a short- to medium-term contract.
Joc Pederson Free Agent Profile
Given his under-the-radar status, Pederson is a sleeper target for teams looking to bolster their lineups without breaking the bank. Pederson hit .275 with 23 home runs and 64 RBI in 2024, his first season with the Arizona Diamondbacks after signing a one-year, $9.5 million contract last offseason. This performance was a testament to his enduring power-hitting abilities, which have been a hallmark of his decade-long career. With 209 career home runs under his belt, Pederson has consistently posed a threat to opposing pitchers during stints with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Chicago Cubs, Atlanta Braves, San Francisco Giants and Diamondbacks.
A two-time All-Star and two-time World Series champion (2020 with the Dodgers and 2021 with the Braves), Pederson brings a winning pedigree and a wealth of postseason experience to the table, making him an enticing target for teams vying for a championship.
Potential Suitors
Toronto Blue Jays
For years, the Blue Jays have struggled to find stability at the designated hitter position, often relying on a revolving door of rotation players or signing free agents who haven’t quite lived up to expectations. Inking Pederson to a contract could be the solution the Blue Jays have been searching for. Pederson fares better against right-handers, hitting 22 home runs with a .923 OPS against them in 2024. However, he hit one home run and a .749 OPS in limited at-bats against left-handers.
Adding someone like Pederson would give the Blue Jays power and depth in the lineup, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. could still start at DH when Pederson sits.
Pittsburgh Pirates
The Pirates are in dire need of offense heading into the offseason. However, they are not a franchise that usually spends significant money to make big additions. Instead, the Pirates have a history of thrift shopping and that’s where Pederson comes in. Though, he isn’t expected to demand a big salary, but acquiring Pederson will certainly fill a void in Pittsburgh’s offense-starved roster. Investing in Pederson could be a game changer for the franchise.
Cincinnati Reds
The Reds could be a landing spot for Pederson, as they seek to bolster their depth and inject some much-needed power in the lineup. With the Reds hiring Terry Francona as manager, Pederson’s veteran presence and track record of production could provide a stabilizing influence on their young roster. Additionally, Great American Ball Park’s hitter-friendly confines could amplify Pederson’s power output, making Cincinnati an attractive destination for the free agent slugger.
Market Value and Projection
Spotrac projects Pederson will command a two-year, $29 million contract. While this figure pales in comparison to Kyle Schwarber‘s four-year, $79 million deal, it’s worth nothing that both players occupy the same position, serving as a power-hitting DH. The disparity in contract values highlights the varying degrees of risk and reward associated with each player, as well as the unique market dynamics at play.
Main Photo: © Denis Poroy-Imagn Images
