Jackie Bradley Jr., who we thought was going to retire, is reportedly open to continuing his career.
The report comes from Pete Abraham of the Boston Globe:
Jackie Bradley Jr. spent time in Miami during the offseason working with Juan Soto on becoming a better outfielder. Both players are represented by Scott Boras. Bradley, 33, has been a free agent since being released by the Royals last June but is open to returning and has been working out...
"JBJ" is most known for his lengthy run with the Boston Red Sox. Part of the 2018 World Series title team, Bradley Jr. spent part of nine seasons with the Red Sox. In addition to being a World Series champ, he was also an All-Star (2016) and a Gold Glover (2018).
But in addition to his time with Boston, he had cameos for the Toronto Blue Jays, Milwaukee Brewers and Kansas City Royals. He appeared in 134 games for the Brewers in 2021, 40 for the Jays in 2022 and 43 for the Royals in 2023 before being let go.
Always a streaky hitter, Bradley Jr. is a lifetime .225 hitter with a .303 on-base percentage. He hit a career-high 26 homers back in 2016.
Because he's a premium defender, it wouldn't be shocking to see him land on a roster as a fourth outfielder. However, because of his increasing age and offensive profile, he may have a tough time finding a job right away. It could be better for him to wait until the injury bug strikes a team, and then for him to land an opportunity that way.
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