Guards? Mariners? 3 Best MLB Free Agent Fits for Luis Arráez If He Leaves Padres

Want a three-time batting champion who can play two positions and is in the prime of his career? Hello, Luis Arráez!

The San Diego Padres' first baseman — who also has extensive experience playing second base — is among the best remaining MLB free agents. While Arráez could easily slide back into the corner infield position for the Padres in the wake of Ryan O'Hearn's free agent departure, Jake Cronenworth could also return to being the team's everyday first baseman. Plus, the 28-year-old Arráez figures to have outside opportunities.

Here are three ideal fits for Arráez should he depart San Diego.

Luis Arraez totaled 200-plus hits in both 2023 and 2024. (Photo by Orlando Ramirez/Getty Images)

The Nationals have some compelling young position players (e.g., James Wood, CJ Abrams and Daylen Lile). What they don't have are veteran complements for that young core, and Arráez would be a slick pickup for first-year manager Blake Butera's depth chart.

In all likelihood, Arráez would be Washington's Opening Day first baseman, as the Nationals don't currently possess a proven first baseman after designating veteran Nathaniel Lowe for assignment in August. Hitting at or near the top of the order, Arráez would set the table for Abrams, Wood and others to do damage, providing an elite contact hitter who seldom strikes out to an offense that was just 21st in MLB in hits last season (1,313).

Plus, Arráez, who started his career as a primary second baseman, can move to the middle infield position should second baseman Luis Garcia get hurt and/or there's an emergence at first base for the franchise. Arráez provides defensive versatility and is a consistent, left-handed hitter who gets on base, serving as an enhancement to an overall