Three potential landing spots for Matt Chapman

Matt Chapman was the top third baseman available when free agency began. That is still the case as January comes to an end.

Chapman has not been the same player he was offensively since he tore his hip labrum. He posted a .240/.330/.424 batting line in his 581 plate appearances, hitting 17 homers and 39 doubles. While that performance was respectable, it was far from what he had been when he was a perennial MVP candidate.

He is far more than his offense. Chapman is one of the best defensive third basemen in the game, leading the majors in runs saved since his debut in 2017. He took home his fourth Gold Glove in 2023, saving 12 runs defensively for the Blue Jays. 

One possible landing spot has already been filled. The Blue Jays signed Justin Turner to a one-year deal, adding an option to their third base mix. Chapman also turned down the qualifying offer, tying him to draft pick compensation and potentially limiting his market. 

However, several teams need help at third and Matt Chapman is the top available option. Let's look at three potential landing spots.

1. San Francisco Giants

The Giants have made improvements this offseason but still have holes in their lineup. Evan Longoria is a free agent, leaving an opening at third. The lineup could use more pop as well as the Giants were last in the NL with a .695 OPS. 

As Chapman would fulfill both needs, it should not be a surprise that Susan Slusser of the San Francisco Chronicle reported that he is the Giants' top position player target. Add in manager Bob Melvin's familiarity with Chapman during their time together in Oakland and the Giants could be a favorite for his services.

2. Chicago Cubs

The Cubs and Chapman have been linked for months. Jon Heyman of the New York Post reported that the Cubs were keeping an eye on Chapman's market at the beginning of December. 

That presumably has not changed given the current options for the hot corner. Nick Madrigal is atop the depth chart, with Patrick Wisdom, Miles Mastrobuoni, and Christopher Morel all possible options. 

This is essentially the same list that led to a .704 OPS, 20th in the majors. Chapman would provide a boost to a Cubs team that is looking to contend in 2024.

3. New York Yankees

The Yankees theoretically have their third baseman. DJ LeMahieu is currently atop their depth chart at third, providing a solid enough option. However, Jon Morosi noted on MLB Network at the beginning of free agency that he was watching the Yankees as a possible landing spot for Chapman.