Top 6 Landing Spots for MLB Free Agent Harrison Bader
SportsGrid Contributor Just Baseball
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Tampa Bay Rays
After trading José Siri to the Mets, the Tampa Bay Rays could use a steady presence in center field. While it’s not typical for the Rays to spend on a defense-first veteran like Bader, his reliability could be a welcome addition to their outfield.
If the Rays decide to prioritize defense and consistency, Bader could be a strong fit for their 2025 roster, adding depth and experience to a team that always finds creative ways to compete.
Miami Marlins
Thanks to Just Baseball for research, analysis and insights for this slideshow article.
The Miami Marlins are the best fit for Harrison Bader, assuming they are willing to spend even a bit this offseason. Their current outfield lacks a true center fielder, with Jesús Sánchez, Kyle Stowers, and Griffin Conine listed as starters.
Adding Bader could help the Marlins improve defensively while also positioning him as a potential trade chip at the deadline. A one-year deal would allow Miami to accelerate their rebuild if they aren’t competitive in 2025, flipping veterans like Bader for prospects midseason.
Arizona Diamondbacks
The Arizona Diamondbacks have talented outfielders like Corbin Carroll, Jake McCarthy, and Alek Thomas, but none of them are ideal everyday center fielders. Bader’s defensive prowess makes him an excellent option for Arizona, especially if they lose Joc Pederson or Randal Grichuk in free agency.
Bader’s right-handed bat would complement Arizona’s lefty-heavy outfield, and he could platoon with their existing players. His ability to prioritize defense over offense fits well with the D-backs’ strategy of fielding a competitive and balanced roster.
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Toronto Blue Jays
With Daulton Varsho recovering from rotator cuff surgery, the Toronto Blue Jays may need a center fielder for the start of 2025. Bader’s Gold Glove defense and experience fit the mold for Toronto, especially considering their preference for elite defensive outfielders like Kevin Kiermaier in previous seasons.
Bader can handle center field while Varsho recovers, and once Varsho is back, the Blue Jays could deploy a dream defensive outfield with two Gold Glove center fielders sharing duties across the field.
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Chicago White Sox
If the Chicago White Sox decide to trade Luis Robert Jr., they’ll have a massive void in center field. Harrison Bader is a great fit for a team in need of a strong defensive anchor, even if the White Sox aren’t expected to contend in 2025.
Bader’s ability to support a young pitching staff and his potential as a trade asset make him a logical signing for the White Sox. By signing him to a short-term deal, Chicago could flip him at the deadline for future assets, addressing both short- and long-term needs.
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Cleveland Guardians
The Cleveland Guardians have Lane Thomas in center field, but his projected $8.3 million arbitration salary may make him expendable. If Cleveland trades Thomas, signing Bader to a cheaper deal would provide a defensive upgrade while saving money.
Bader’s skills would complement Cleveland’s pitching-focused roster, offering a reliable option in center field for a team that values run prevention above all else.
Tampa Bay Rays
After trading José Siri to the Mets, the Tampa Bay Rays could use a steady presence in center field. While it’s not typical for the Rays to spend on a defense-first veteran like Bader, his reliability could be a welcome addition to their outfield.
If the Rays decide to prioritize defense and consistency, Bader could be a strong fit for their 2025 roster, adding depth and experience to a team that always finds creative ways to compete.
Miami Marlins
Thanks to Just Baseball for research, analysis and insights for this slideshow article.
The Miami Marlins are the best fit for Harrison Bader, assuming they are willing to spend even a bit this offseason. Their current outfield lacks a true center fielder, with Jesús Sánchez, Kyle Stowers, and Griffin Conine listed as starters.
Adding Bader could help the Marlins improve defensively while also positioning him as a potential trade chip at the deadline. A one-year deal would allow Miami to accelerate their rebuild if they aren’t competitive in 2025, flipping veterans like Bader for prospects midseason.
