MLB Free Agents 2012: Jimmy Rollins, Carlos Beltran Are Market's Biggest Gambles

With established sluggers Albert Pujols and Prince Fielder dominating the free-agent news, it’s easy to forget that not every player available is as safe an acquisition.

This duo could make for significant additions to a new team…or they could blow up in some poor GM’s face by the end of May:

Jimmy Rollins, SS

Few players are likely to cash in on bygone glories as much as Jimmy Rollins. He’s far from the player he was in his MVP season of 2007, but at only 33, he could command a significant contract.

Even discounting his injury-shortened 2010 season, Rollins’ numbers have clearly taken a dive from his MVP peak. He’s gone from 30 homers and 20 triples to 16 homers and two triples in 2011, and his OPS overall has dropped from .875 to .736.

Perhaps most worrisome is that Rollins has spent his entire career as a Phillie. If any other team picks him up, it’s hard to imagine his numbers not taking a hit as he moves away from homer-friendly Citizens Bank Park.

Carlos Beltran, OF

Coming off an All-Star season, Beltran has potential to deliver for a new team in 2012. On the other hand, after injury-plagued seasons in 2009 and 2010, he’s far from a safe signing.

Beltran turns 35 next April, and his next significant injury could easily be the last of his career. He has been productive when he’s been on the field, but how long his body will hold together is a question that must be asked.