Free Agent Season

With the World Series settled and the five-day waiting period over, clubs are free to make offers to such impressive talent as Jacoby Ellsbury, Shin Soo Choo, Brian McCann and Nelson Cruz. But the big prize is Robinson Cano. His impressive offensive numbers for a second baseman, combined with above-average defensive skills, likely mean he'll earn this winter's biggest contract. But should he?
With Alex Rodriguez and Derek Jeter missing more than half of the 2013 season, the Yankees struggled to remain close to the eventual champion Red Sox. Attendance in the Bronx was down, creating the perception that unlike Jeter, A-Rod or previous Yankee icons Mantle, DiMaggio or Reggie, fans don't come out just to see him.
There's also that supposed issue of hustle. Too often, he's watching his fly balls headling toward the fences, instead of running hard for a possible extra base. And if he hits infield grounders, he appears at times to raise the white flag before a fielder has the (slight) chance to muff it.
Will Cano get the 10 year deal worth over $300-million that his agents floated? Now 31 and in his prime, will he hit the jackpot? Or will the Yankees fear committing to Cano hamstrings their payroll in an era of a stronger luxury tax? Does the Red Sox policy of signing mid-priced talent and "character guys" set a different template?
Share an opinion if you have one -- and stayed tuned. It's going to be a fascinating off-season.

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