Three potential landing spots for Luis Arraez

Luis Arraez is one of the more unique players in Major League Baseball today.

Arraez is a throwback player, someone who makes plenty of contact and does not strike out often. He also does not hit for virtually any power, does not draw many walks and is not a real stolen base threat. Although he has spent most of his time at first and second, Arraez is a mediocre defender without a true defensive home. He is the type of player that is difficult to put a price tag on in the modern game.

A three-time All-Star, Arraez has won three batting titles and led the league in hits in each of the past two seasons. He has a .317/.363/.413 batting line in his 3,533 career plate appearances, hitting 36 homers and 169 doubles with 31 steals. 

Three possible landing spots for free agent infielder Luis Arraez

Arraez can be a useful piece in the right situation. Let's take a look at three possible landing spots. 

1. Colorado Rockies

The Rockies current depth chart at first base is not exactly inspiring. While Blaine Crim had a strong showing after being claimed off waivers from the Rangers, the 28-year-old has a total of 74 major-league plate appearances. Recently acquired infielder Eduardo Julien and first baseman T.J. Rumsfield may factor into the picture at first as well.

Despite adding Julien and Rumsfield, Rockies president of baseball operations Paul DePodesta said that they may still add another first baseman. Arraez could be an interesting option to improve the roster and could bring back a strong return at the trade deadline.

2. San Diego Padres

The incumbent Padres have a glaring hole at first with Arraez remaining on the market. Infielder Jake Cronenworth is listed atop the depth chart at both first and second base, although Gavin Sheets could move from the designated hitter role to take over at first base.

Bringing Arraez back is a possible solution. President of baseball operations A.J. Preller indicated that the Padres were interested in retaining Arraez at the beginning of the offseason. The question is whether or not the Padres have the payroll flexibility to do so, which could hinge on if Yu Darvish decides to retire.

3. Miami Marlins

The Marlins were essentially Arraez as a team in 2025. They posted the fourth-best strikeout rate (20.3%) and fourth-fewest home runs (154) in the majors. That formula had a degree of success as the Marlins ranked 16thin the majors with 709 runs scored.

First base is a question mark in Miami. Christopher Morel was signed to take over at first in 2026 but he has no professional experience at the position. Morel's defense is also best suited for the designated hitter role, although catcher Agustin Ramirez is likely to see significant time in that spot. Signing Arraez would double down on the Marlins' offensive philosophy while adding another bat in their quest to contend for a playoff berth. The Marlins also have familiarity with Arraez as he spent just over a year in Miami before being traded to the Padres.