Shin-Soo Choo Targeted by Yankees, Tigers and Reds

Now that Jacoby Ellsbury has signed with the New York Yankees, fellow Scott Boras client Shin-Soo Choo is the most highly regarded outfielder remaining on the free agent market.

Media reports indicate that the Yankees still could pursue the 31-year-old left-handed hitter who is comfortable in right field but can also play center; however, the club is also trying to bring back R0binson Cano.

Choo, who is from South Korea, had the fourth-best on-base percentage in the majors last season at .423. Add his .285 average, .885 OPS,  21 home runs, 20 stolen bases and 112 walks in 712 plate appearances, and you as a general manager would bring your team an impact hitter albeit at a high cost in years and annual salary.

Choo posted the aforementioned numbers for the Cincinnati Reds, which would like to re-sign him, but Boras is reportedly seeking a contract in the vicinity of the seven years and $153 million that Ellsbury will pocket from the Yankees. Those terms are likely too hefty for a small market team like the Reds.

Citing an unnamed source, Mark Feinsand of the New York Daily News Tweeted that the Detroit Tigers are interested in a left-handed outfield bat and Choo is their top target. The Tigers saved $76 million by trading Prince Fielder to the Texas Rangers.

After reaching the ALCS, where they lost to the Red Sox, Detroit has reshaped its roster this offseason. Miguel Cabrera will move to first base and rookie Nick Castellanos will start at third in 2014.

The Tigers filled a void by signing closer Joe Nathan, and inking Choo would bolster an outfield that currently lacks a prominent left fielder. Austin Jackson and Torii Hunter occupy two spots in the outfield, but Andy Dirks and Don Kelly are the left field candidates, and both are best suited for utility roles.

Choo would help Detroit’s lineup remain potent, even without Fielder.