MLB Free Agency: The Top 50 Free Agent Position Players

The Major League Baseball offseason has officially commenced. All the of the player and club options have been exercised or declined, and, as of late last night, teams can now negotiate with any free agent in the market.

With that being said, let's take a quick look at this winter's top free agent position players and where they might take the field next summer.

The following rankings are based on the player's age, recent success and potential to make a significant impact for the duration of their next contract.

Let the discussion begin.

50. Jorge Posada

Position: DH, C

Age: 40

2011 Statistics: .235/.315/.398, 115 games, 14 home runs

Jorge Posada will always be remembered as one of this era's greatest Yankees, even if he goes to another team this winter. At this point, he is best suited as a part-time designated hitter.

Prediction: Posada rebounded after a rough start to the season. The Yankees probably don't have room for him, but I see him playing for one more season, this time with the Baltimore Orioles.

Other possibilities: New York Yankees, Tampa Bay Rays, retirement

49. Magglio Ordonez

Position: RF, LF, DH

Age: 37

2011 Statistics: .255/.303/.331, 92 games, 5 home runs, 32 RBI

Ordonez is coming off two injury-plagued seasons with Detroit. He has started to lose his power at the plate in his late 30s, but is only six home runs away from 300 for his career. Ordonez could sign another contract if he is able to completely recover from his latest injury.

Prediction: He could receive some at-bats in right field and in the designated hitter role against left-handed pitching with the Tampa Bay Rays.

Other possibilities: Detroit Tigers, Boston Red Sox, Cleveland Indians

48. Nate McLouth

Position: OF

Age: 30

2011 Statistics: .228/.344/.333, 81 games, 44 walks

McLouth is coming off a couple of poor seasons with the Braves after beginning his career rather well with the Pirates. He has been known as a good defender that is certainly capable of playing center field, but his lively bat has fallen off.

Prediction: Expect McLouth to look for an opportunity to battle for a starting spot next spring in order to re-establish himself as a full-time player. One possibility may exist with the Oakland Athletics.

Other Possibilities: Washington Nationals, Florida Marlins, Houston Astros

47. Kelly Shoppach

Position: C

Age: 31

2011 Statistics: .176/.268/.339, 87 games, 11 home runs

Shoppach has always been known as a backup catcher that brings power to the plate. And that's actually a pretty fair description. He struggled during the regular season, but performed well during the Rays postseason run.

Prediction: Shoppach will find a Major League deal to be a part-time catcher. Though the Rays turned down his option, Shoppach can still return to the team on a less-expensive contract.

Other possibilities: Toronto Blue Jays, San Diego Padres, Kansas City Royals

46. Reed Johnson

Position: OF

Age: 34

2011 Statistics: .309/.348/.467, 111 games, 22 doubles

After a couple of seasons of holding full-time duties early in his career with the Blue Jays, Johnson became a steady and serviceable fourth outfielder. Johnson's value resides in ability to play all three outfield spots and his knack for getting on base.

Prediction: The Cleveland Indians need to add outfield depth to help offset the departures of Grady Sizemore and Kosuke Fukudome. Johnson would be a good tool off the bench in Cleveland.

Other Possibilities: Chicago Cubs, San Francisco Giants, Tampa Bay Rays

45. Hideki Matsui

Position: DH, LF

Age: 37

2011 Statistics: .251/.321/.375, 141 games, 28 doubles, 12 home runs

Matsui played well in 2011 and will have interest this offseason as a designated hitter. He and Vladimir Guerrero will be battling for the same jobs this winter.

Prediction: Matsui could return to the Oakland Athletics as a part-time designated hitter on an inexpensive deal.

Other possibilities: Texas Rangers, Baltimore Orioles, Tampa Bay Rays

44. Vladimir Guerrero

Position: DH, RF

Age: 36

2011 Statistics: .290/.317/.416, 145 games, 30 doubles, 13 home runs, 63 RBI

Vlad continued to play well during the 2011 season, his first with the Orioles, but is no longer the daunting presence he once was. There are only a couple open designated hitter positions this winter, so finding a full-time job will be difficult.

Prediction: Guerrero could work himself into the Texas Rangers designated hitter rotation.

Other possibilities: Oakland Athletics, Tampa Bay Rays, Toronto Blue Jays

43. Endy Chavez

Position: OF

Age: 33

2011 Statistics: .301/.323/.426, 83 games, 10 stolen bases, 37 runs

Chavez is one of the best defensive players on the market this winter. He has never been known for his bat, but was able to put up more than respectable numbers in 2011.

Prediction: Chavez will likely sign with a team as their fourth outfielder. One great fit is with the San Francisco Giants, as he could be a defensive replacement late in games for Brandon Belt and could help cover plenty of ground in San Francisco's spacious outfield.

Other possibilities: Texas Rangers, Florida Marlins, Washington Nationals

42. Ronny Cedeno

Position: SS, 2B

Age: 28

2011 Statistics: .249/.297/.339, 128 games, 25 doubles

The free agent market for shortstops is deep and offers names such as Jose Reyes, Jimmy Rollins and Alex Gonzalez. The best jobs will go to the big-name free agents, but Cedeno is still young and has stayed healthy over the past couple of seasons. As long as he doesn't price himself out of potential destinations, Cedeno should be able to find at least a part-time job as a shortstop or a full-time spot as a second baseman.

Prediction: Cedeno could still find himself back in Pittsburgh at a reduced rate, but I see them going in another direction. Cedeno could join the Kansas City Royals and compete for the starting second base job.

Other possibilities: Pittsburgh Pirates, Minnesota Twins, New York Mets

41. Jonny Gomes

Position: LF, RF

Age: 30

2011 Statistics: .209/.325/.389, 120 games, 14 home runs, 43 RBI

Gomes is an intriguing free-agent slugger that will continue to hit home runs regardless of what team he ends up with. He is a great part-time player and pinch hitter.

Prediction: Gomes could land in a great situation with the Arizona Diamondbacks as Gerardo Parra's platoon partner.

Other possibilities: Washington Nationals, Florida Marlins, San Francisco Giants

40. Wilson Betemit

Position: 3B, 1B, 2B

Age: 29

2011 Statistics: .285/.343/.452, 97 games, 8 home runs, 46 RBI, 22 doubles

Besides a poor 0-9 showing in the postseason with Detroit, Betemit had a strong 2011 campaign. Betemit provided great value for his low price tag and will be valued with such few third base options on the market this winter.

Prediction: The Oakland Athletics are currently relying on Scott Sizemore at third base and may want a veteran to start the year at third base. Betemit could begin the year in Oakland.  

Other possibilities: Florida Marlins, Baltimore Orioles, Detroit Tigers

39. Jerry Hairston Jr.

Position: 2B, SS, 3B, OF

Age: 35

2011 Statistics: .270/.344/.383, 120 games, 21 doubles, 5 home runs

Hairston is a well-traveled utility player that can play all over the field. He offers value as a great piece off the bench.

Prediction: He turned out to be a great fit in Milwaukee and even took over as the starting third baseman in the postseason. He would be a good fit back in Wisconsin next near.

Other possibilities: Washington Nationals, Atlanta Braves, Cleveland Indians

38. Kosuke Fukudome

Position: OF

Age: 34

2011 Statistics: .262/.342/.370, 146 games, 8 home runs, 27 doubles

Kosuke Fukudome did not live up to lofty expectations after signing a huge contract with the Cubs before the 2008 season. However, over the duration of that four year deal, he did play great defense and was able to get on-base. Fukudome has also played at least 130 games in all four of his Major League seasons.

Prediction: Kosuke Fukudome would be a logical fit to platoon with Nolan Reimold in left field for the Baltimore Orioles.

Other possibilities: Cleveland Indians, Minnesota Twins, San Diego Padres

37. Andruw Jones

Position: OF

Age: 34

2011 Statistics: .247/.356/.495, 77 games, 13 home runs

Jones appeared in his fewest games since 1996 while playing with the Yankees this summer. He performed very well despite his reduced role and was able to help the team get into the postseason.

Prediction: The Yankees and Andruw Jones are a great match for each other, and I see a reunion as a rather likely scenario.

Other possibilities: San Francisco Giants, Arizona Diamondbacks, Florida Marlins  

36. Ramon Santiago

Position: 2B, SS, 3B

Age: 32

2011 Statistics: .260/.311/.384, .996 fielding percentage at second base

Santiago has become a reliable utility infielder for the Detroit Tigers. His 2011 statistics are in line with the rest of his career, so new teams have a pretty good idea of the performance he will offer in 2012. He will look for an opportunity to start, but is probably best suited in a utility role.

Prediction: Santiago and the Tigers will realize that they are a good match, and he will return to Detroit in 2012 while continuing to receive semi-regular playing time.

Other possibilities: Kansas City Royals, St. Louis Cardinals, Washington Nationals

35. Cody Ross

Position: OF

Age: 30

2011 Statistics: .240/.325/.405, 14 home runs, 52 RBI, 25 doubles

Ross took a step backwards in 2011 after previously stringing together four very productive seasons. Ross will be looking for a starting position, but may have to settle for a platoon role.

Prediction: J.D. Drew's departure from Boston leaves an opening in right field. Ross could partner with Josh Reddick to create an affordable and solid right field platoon while the Red Sox work to rebound from a devastating season.

Other possibilities: San Francisco Giants, San Diego Padres, Cleveland Indians 

34. Nick Punto

Position: 2B, 3B, SS

Age: 33

2011 Statistics: .278/.388/.421, 63 games, 25 walks, 4 triples

Punto became an important part of the Cardinals stretch run after battling injuries early on in 2011. He offers versatility and an ability to get on base.

Prediction: I predict that he returns to the St. Louis Cardinals in a role similar to what he's done over the past couple of seasons.

Other possibilities: Oakland Athletics, Kansas City Royals, Minnesota Twins

33. Yuniesky Betancourt

Position: SS

Age: 29

2011 Statistics: .252/.271/.381, 152 games, 27 doubles, 13 home runs, 68 RBI

Over the last two years, Betancourt has 29 home runs and 146 RBI. His defense is below average, but his offensive production is solid, and the Brewers proved they could make a postseason run with Betancourt as their everyday shortstop.

Prediction: The San Francisco Giants are in need of a shortstop, and Betancourt is a logical fit. He will cost less than Jose Reyes and Jimmy Rollins, which will allow the team to upgrade other positions as well.

Other possibilities: Cincinnati Reds, Milwaukee Brewers, Atlanta Braves

32. Casey Kotchman

Position: 1B

Age: 28

2011 Statistics: .306/.378/.422, 146 games, 24 doubles, 10 home runs

Kotchman had a productive season with the Rays in 2011 after a dismal campaign with the Mariners in 2010. His on-base percentage was impressive, but his lack of power at a position known for sluggers will reduce his value.

Prediction: The Tampa Bay Rays will look to bring Kotchman back in 2012 as they continue to build a roster on a low budget.

Other possibilities: Oakland Athletics, Cleveland Indians, San Diego Padres

31. Juan Pierre

Position: LF, CF

Age: 34

2011 Statistics: .279/.329/.327, 158 games, 80 runs, 27 stolen bases

Pierre is no longer the top base-stealing threat in the game, but he does offer value as a lead-off hitter who can work the count and get on base by putting the ball in play. If he can't find a starting job, he would be a useful bench player that can pinch run, lay down a bunt late in the game and give the starters a day off.

Prediction: Pierre could be a good fit with the Detroit Tigers as a fourth outfielder on a one-year deal. Austin Jackson has struggled with strikeouts while serving as the team's leadoff hitter and may be better suited to bat lower in the order. Pierre would not begin the season as a starter, but would offer depth and provide the manager with another option in case Jackson's strikeout tendencies continue.

Other possibilities: Florida Marlins, Baltimore Orioles, Chicago White Sox

30. Willie Bloomquist

Position: SS, 2B, 3B, CF, LF, RF

Age: 33

2011 Statistics: .266/.317/.340, 97 games, 10 doubles, 20 stolen bases

Bloomquist did a good job filling in for Arizona's Stephen Drew this year. He played well at shortstop and did well at the plate in the postseason, too.

Prediction: The Washington Nationals will be looking for infield depth this offseason. Bloomquist would immediately be the team's best backup at many positions.   

Other possibilities: Cleveland Indians, New York Mets, Arizona Diamondbacks

29. Juan Rivera

Position: LF, RF, 1B

Age: 33

2011 Statistics: .258/.319/.382, 132 games, 23 doubles, 74 RBI

According to Jon Paul Morosi of Fox Sports, the Dodgers will re-sign Juan Rivera to a one year contract.

The Dodgers are facing economic hardships at the moment and will already have to spend plenty of money to tender contracts to arbitration eligible players like Matt Kemp, Andre Ethier and Clayton Kershaw. Rivera was productive in Dodger blue last year and will be an affordable option to play left field and platoon with James Loney at first base.

Other possibilities were: Oakland Athletics, San Diego Padres, Minnesota Twins

28. Jim Thome

Position: DH

Age: 41

2011 Statistics: .256/.361/.477, 93 games, 15 home runs, 50 RBI

Thome is currently sitting at 604 career home runs and is interested in returning to baseball in 2012.

Prediction: Thome most likely wants a chance to play for a contender next summer. One of the few teams with an open designated hitter spot at this point is the Tampa Bay Rays. Thome could offer some protection in the lineup for Evan Longoria and Ben Zobrist.

Other possibilities: Toronto Blue Jays, Minnesota Twins, Seattle Mariners

27. Raul Ibanez

Position: LF, RF

Age: 39

2011 Statistics: .245/.289/.419, 144 games, 31 doubles, 20 home runs, 84 RBI

Ibanez has been a steady middle of the order hitter for the entirety of his career. He isn't getting any younger, but his production is still holding relatively strong.

Prediction: Ibanez should look for a team that can offer him innings in left field but also some opportunities as the designated hitter as this will help him stay rested. He could be a good fit with the Oakland Athletics.

Other opportunities: Cleveland Indians, Seattle Mariners, Atlanta Braves

26. Ryan Ludwick

Position: LF, RF

Age: 33

2011 Statistics: .237/.310/.363, 139 games, 13 home runs, 75 RBI

Ludwick had a disappointing season in 2011, but he also played in a couple of home stadiums that are not known for being hitters parks. He is not a superstar, but he is a solid outfielder, and I expect him to play better next season.

Prediction: Ludwick would be a good fit in left field for the Cleveland Indians.

Other possibilities: Houston Astros, Florida Marlins, Atlanta Braves

25. Derrek Lee

Position: 1B

Age: 36

2011 Statistics: .267/.325/.446, 113 games, 19 home runs, 59 RBI

Lee split this last season between Baltimore and Pittsburgh. He performed much better with the Pirates in the second half, holding a .337/.398/.584 line over 28 games in the National League.

Prediction: Lee is familiar with the NL Central after spending years in Chicago. He left a strong impression in Pittsburgh and offers a great veteran presence on an otherwise young roster. Lee will return to the Pirates on a one-year deal.

Other possibilities: Milwaukee Brewers, San Diego Padres, Minnesota Twins

24. Jamey Carroll

Position: 2B, SS, 3B, RF, LF

Age: 37

2011 Statistics: .290/.359/.347, 146 games, 6 triples, 10 stolen bases

Carroll is a utlity man that offers versatility, but is best suited playing the middle infield positions. He is a consistent contributor who could either come off the bench or possibly find a starting job.

Prediction: The Houston Astros are in a rebuilding mode. Carroll's versatility and experience would make him an ideal mentor to many of the team's young players.

Other possibilities: Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Mets, Washington Nationals

23. David DeJesus

Position: OF

Age: 31

2011 Statistics: .240/.323/.376, 131 games, 20 doubles, 10 home runs

DeJesus never seemed to get on a role during his lone season in Oakland. He was a consistent performer during his times in Kansas City and will likely point to those statistics when negotiating his next contract this winter.

Prediction: The San Francisco Giants need to improve their offense in order to make another run at a title while they still have their stellar pitching intact. DeJesus can help improve the Giants offense as their new centerfielder.

Other possibilities: Houston Astros, San Diego Padres, Chicago Cubs

22. Rafael Furcal

Position: SS

Age: 34

2011 Statistics: .231/.298/.348, 87 games, 15 doubles, 8 home runs

Furcal began the 2011 season terribly with the Dodgers, but seemed rejuvenated after a trade to the Cardinals. He put up a respectable .255/.316/.418 line while with St. Louis and was an important part of their World Series run.

Prediction: Furcal seems excited about the possibility of returning to St. Louis in 2012. He will not be overly expensive, so a reunion makes sense.

Other possibilities: San Francisco Giants, Washington Nationals, Cincinnati Reds

21. Ryan Doumit

Position: C, 1B, RF

Age: 30

2011 Statistics: .303/.353/.477, 77 games, 12 doubles, 8 home runs

The versatile Ryan Doumit is coming off a season in which he played well, but was not able to play as often as he would have liked. The switch-hitting catcher can be a strong offensive contributor when healthy, but he has only played more than 90 games twice in his seven-year career.

Prediction: The Kansas City Royals have a young core of players that are close to contending. However, the team is without an obvious choice to start at catcher. In Kansas City, Doumit would have an opportunity to become a starter again on a team that is loaded with potential.

Other possibilities: Boston Red Sox, Tampa Bay Rays, San Diego Padres

20. Mark Ellis

Position: 2B

Age: 34

2011 Statistics: .248/.288/.346, 132 games, 24 doubles, 14 stolen bases, .995 fielding percentage

Mark Ellis was a long-time member of the Oakland Athletics before being traded to the Colorado Rockies this summer. He was struggling early in the season but greatly improved his play after moving to the National League.

Prediction: Ellis will likely return to the Colorado Rockies in 2012. He is a great double play partner for shortstop Troy Tulowitzki, and he holds his own at the plate.

Other possibilities: Kansas City Royals, Los Angeles Dodgers, Minnesota Twins

19. Aaron Hill

Position: 2B

Age: 29

2011 Statistics: .246/.299/.356, 137 games, 27 doubles, 61 RBI, 21 stolen bases

Hill encountered a dramatic decrease in power production over the last year, watching his home run total drop from 26 in 2010 to just eight in 2011. In his favor, however, is a very strong second half to this past season, including an impressive showing in the playoffs.

Prediction: Hill made the most of his time in Arizona, and it will be noticed as the Diamondbacks shape their roster this offseason. He will likely re-sign with the Snakes to a one year deal with an option for another.

Other possibilities: Colorado Rockies, Kansas City Royals, Detroit Tigers

18. Carlos Pena

Position: 1B

Age: 33

2011 Statistics: .225/.357/.462, 153 games, 28 home runs, 80 RBI, 101 walks, 7 intentional walks

Pena had a horrible start to the 2011 season, hitting zero home runs in the month of April. He responded with seven home runs in May and 10 in June. At the end of the season, Pena's statistics were close to what most would've predicted when he signed the contract.

Prediction: Pena would not be able to entirely replace Prince Fielder's production in Milwaukee, but his solid defense and power from the left side would certainly help.

Other possibilities: Chicago Cubs, Cleveland Indians, Pittsburgh Pirates

17. Clint Barmes

Position: SS, 2B, 3B

Age: 32

2011 Statistics: .244/.312/.386, 123 games, 27 doubles, 12 home runs

The shortstop market is deep this offseason, and most of the attention will be focused on Jose Reyes and Jimmy Rollins. The teams that miss out on (or simply can't afford) the superstars will have to bid for players like Clint Barmes, Alex Gonzalez and Yuniesky Betancourt. Barmes has had an up and down career thus far, but still has some pop in his bat and brings experience at both shortstop and second base.

Prediction: The Pittsburgh Pirates have relied on Ronny Cedeno at shortstop for the past two seasons, but recently declined his option for 2012. Signing Barmes would bring a little more power to the shortstop position and would reunite the shortstop with his former manager, Clint Hurdle.

Other possibilities: Houston Astros, Tampa Bay Rays, Minnesota Twins

16. Ramon Hernandez

Position: C

Age: 35

2011 Statistics: .282/.341/.446, 91 games, 13 doubles, 12 home runs

Hernandez is the best catching option available via free agency this winter. He hasn't been a full-time catcher since 2008 with the Baltimore Orioles, but he has been productive while splitting time with Ryan Hanigan over the last three seasons in Cincinnati.

Prediction: The Pittsburgh Pirates showed glimpses of promise in 2011, but cycled through catchers as starters Chris Snyder and Ryan Doumit dealt with injuries throughout the season. Hernandez can bring leadership and help tutor a young pitching staff that is ready to make the next step.

Other possibilities: Kansas City Royals, Cincinnati Reds, Tampa Bay Rays

15. Johnny Damon

Position: LF, DH

Age: 37

2011 Statistics: .261/.326/.418, 150 games, 29 doubles, 73 RBI, 19 stolen bases

Damon has been among the game's healthiest players over the last 16 years, playing in at least 141 games each season during that span.

Prediction: If there's one thing the Minnesota Twins didn't have in 2011, it was health. Damon could provide a consistent presence in the lineup as a part-time left fielder and as part of the rotation at designated hitter alongside Joe Mauer and Justin Morneau.

Other possibilities: Tampa Bay Rays, Toronto Blue Jays, Oakland Athletics

14. Alex Gonzalez

Position: SS

Age: 34

2011 Statistics: .241/.270/.372, 149 games, 27 doubles, 15 home runs, .981 fielding percentage

The veteran shortstop put together another solid season in 2011. He has played good defense over the years while also providing some pop at the plate.

Prediction: The Atlanta Braves are not far from being a World Series contender and therefore should at least start the season with a veteran presence at shortstop. Tyler Pastornicky is waiting in the wings for the Braves as their shortstop of the future, but they don't need to rely on him just yet.

Other possibilities: San Francisco Giants, Washington Nationals, Milwaukee Brewers

13. Kelly Johnson

Position: 2B

Age: 29

2011 Statistics: .222/.304/.413, 147 games, 27 doubles, 21 home runs, 16 stolen bases

Johnson started the season with Arizona, but was dealt to Toronto in the second half. While with the Blue Jays, Johnson made significant improvements in his approach at the plate, as shown by increases in his batting average, on-base percentage and slugging percentage.

Prediction: Toronto is likely to pursue him this winter and he is a good fit in their lineup.

Other possibilities: Detroit Tigers, Kansas City Royals, Los Angeles Dodgers

12. Jason Kubel

Position: LF, RF, DH

Age: 29

2011 Statistics: .273/.332/.434, 99 games, 21 doubles, 12 home runs, 58 RBI

Kubel was another Minnesota Twin to have his 2011 season cut short by injuries. He is looking return to his 2009 form, when he hit .300 and drove in 103 runs. Kubel is still young and is likely looking for a multi-year deal.

Prediction: The Seattle Mariners have an offense that is lacking power. A healthy Jason Kubel would help protect young Mariners hitters like Dustin Ackley and Justin Smoak.

Other possibilities: Minnesota Twins, Boston Red Sox, Oakland Athletics

11. Grady Sizemore

Position: OF

Age: 29

2011 Statistics: .224/.285/.422, 71 games, 21 doubles, 10 home runs

Injuries have taken their toll on Sizemore, limiting both his time on the field and his overall athleticism. Sizemore was not able to steal a base in 71 games this summer, and his fielding percentage was at a career low. That being said, he still offers power at the plate and is certainly young enough to work his way back to stardom, making him one of the most intriguing free agents on the market.

Prediction: The Washington Nationals have made it known that they are interested in acquiring a full-time centerfielder, and Grady Sizemore is likely to be up to the challenge. The Nats could offer Sizemore an incentive-filled contract to take over center field for 2012.

Other possibilities: Chicago Cubs, Cleveland Indians, Florida Marlins

10. Josh Willingham

Position: LF, 1B

Age: 32

2011 Statistics: .246/.332/.477, 136 games, 29 home runs, 98 RBI

Willingham has been a solid power hitter during his six full seasons in the bigs. His strong showing this summer will likely have him in line for a three-year contract.

Prediction: The Colorado Rockies were close to acquiring Michael Young last season and have also been rumored to be interested in David Wright. Young is likely staying put, and acquiring Wright would mean trading away valuable prospects. Willingham could provide the team with a power bat and a solid left fielder without having to trade away the future.

Other possibilities: Oakland Athletics, Pittsburgh Pirates, Baltimore Orioles

9. Coco Crisp

Position: OF

Age: 32

2011 Statistics: .264/.314/.379, 136 games, 27 doubles, 49 stolen bases

Coco Crisp is the best centerfielder on the free agent market, and that will likely help him find a two-year deal.

Prediction: The Florida Marlins should sign Crisp to take over center field, a position that has been a weak spot for the team in recent years. Crisp is a good defender, and the Marlins could slide Chris Coghlan back to left field, where he has had most of success.

Other possibilities: San Francisco Giants, Oakland Athletics, Washington Nationals

8. Carlos Beltran

Position: OF

Age: 34

2011 Statistics: .300/.385/.525, 142 games, 39 doubles, 22 home runs

Beltran had a healthy year at the right time. This was his first full season since 2008 and has set him up well for free agency.

Prediction: San Francisco is likely interested in retaining Beltran and he fits nicely into their lineup.

Other possibilities: Boston Red Sox, Colorado Rockies, Seattle Mariners

7. David Ortiz

Position: DH

Age: 35

2011 Statistics: .309/.398/.554, 146 games, 40 doubles, 29 home runs, 96 RBI

Big Papi has become the face of the franchise for the Boston Red Sox. He is a consistent presence in the middle of the order that would not be easy for the new management to replace.

Prediction: Ortiz will entertain offers from Boston's rivals, but will likely head back to the Red Sox, as they continually field winning teams.

Other possibilities: Tampa Bay Rays, Toronto Blue Jays, Baltimore Orioles

6. Michael Cuddyer

Position: RF, LF, 1B

Age: 32

2011 Statistics: .284/.346/.459, 139 games, 29 doubles, 20 home runs, 11 stolen bases

Cuddyer's versatility and production have made him a fan favorite in Minnesota. He was essentially the face of the franchise in 2011, as Joe Mauer and Justin Morneau missed extensive time due to injuries.

Prediction: Cuddyer offers great value to the Twins, as he can rotate between right field, left field, first base, designated hitter and even third base when necessary. The Twins do not have a ton of room to boost payroll, but Cuddyer is certainly worth it for this organization.

Other possibilities: Colorado Rockies, San Francisco Giants, Boston Red Sox 

5. Jimmy Rollins

Position: SS

Age: 32

2011 Statistics: .268/.338/.399, 142 games, 22 doubles, 16 home runs, 30 stolen bases

Rollins is not only a productive shortstop, he is a team leader and a winner. Rollins played well in this summer and followed that with a great postseason, batting .450 with four doubles and two stolen bases in five playoff games.

Prediction: Rollins is a great fit with the Phillies and will return if he receives a good offer from the team. I expect it to get done.

Other possibilities: San Francisco Giants, Washington Nationals, Milwaukee Brewers

4. Aramis Ramirez

Position: 3B

Age: 33

2011 Statistics: .306/.361/.510, 149 games, 35 doubles, 26 home runs, 93 RBI

Ramirez is by far the best third baseman available on the free agent market. After a slow start, Aramis put up a great second half to the season and finished with outstanding numbers.

Prediction: The Los Angeles Angels missed out on third baseman Adrian Beltre last offseason and still have an opening at third base. Ramirez is the best option, but he will be costly. I expect the team to try to move some money around in order to make room for Aramis' contract.

Other possibilities: Chicago Cubs, Florida Marlins, Colorado Rockies

3. Jose Reyes

Position: SS

Age: 28

2011 Statistics: .337/.384/.493, 126 games, 31 doubles, 16 triples, 39 stolen bases

Reyes stayed healthy for the most part during his contract year. As always, injuries are a concern with Reyes, maybe now more than ever as teams prepare to offer lengthy and expensive contracts for the speedy shortstop.

Prediction: Reyes would be a great fit in Miami with a Marlins team that is getting a fresh start with plenty of changes. Reyes' addition would move Hanley Ramirez to third base and would improve the infield defense.

Other possibilities: New York Mets, Washington Nationals, San Francisco Giants 

2. Prince Fielder

Position: 1B

Age: 27

2011 Statistics: .299/.415/.566, 162 games, 38 home runs, 120 RBI

Prince is one of the game's most powerful and exciting hitters. He has also become one of the best performers in clutch situations, often coming through with big hits late in the game. Fielder will cost a lot of money and his defense is suspect, but he provides a guaranteed threat in the middle of the order.

Prediction: The Chicago Cubs are beginning a new era under the management of Theo Epstein. He will be careful to not over-spend on players that are past their prime, but, at the age of 27, Fielder is still in the middle of his best years. Fielder would accelerate Chicago's rebuilding process and take some pressure off of Starlin Castro.

Other possibilities: Milwaukee Brewers, Seattle Mariners, Washington Nationals

1. Albert Pujols

Position: 1B

Age: 31

2011 Statistics: .299/.366/.541, 147 games, 37 home runs, 99 RBI

Pujols has been the best player of this generation. Barring future injuries, he will have a chance to go down as one of the best players to ever step on the field.

Prediction: Pujols has certainly become an icon in St. Louis, and he will continue to add to his legendary career with the Cardinals.

Other possibilities: Chicago Cubs, Texas Rangers, Washington Nationals