St. Louis Cardinals Nearing Deal with Dexter Fowler
The St. Louis Cardinals biggest goal this offseason was to find a center fielder. According to several reports, they found that player with former Chicago Cubs outfielder Dexter Fowler.
One of the biggest holes on the St. Louis Cardinals roster came in center field. While Randal Grichuk played center for the Cardinals last year, he profiles more as a corner outfielder, his 2.17 range factor in center ranking far below the league average of 2.38 last season. The Cardinals needed someone that could fill that position, while providing a solid bat at the plate.
They have found that in Dexter Fowler. According to reports, a deal is in place between the Cardinals and Fowler, pending the results of a physical set for tomorrow. The contract is expected to be for five years, with Fowler getting at least $16 Million per season.
It is certainly a reasonable deal in light of the five year, $70 Million contract signed by Ian Desmond yesterday. Fowler had been considered the top center fielder in the market, a consistent hitter with solid speed who could improve a defense. It also helps that he was arguably the Chicago Cubs most important player in 2016, given the team’s struggles when he was out of the lineup.
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Last year, Fowler had what could arguably be considered his best season in the Majors. He posted a .276/.393/.447 batting line, hitting 13 home runs and stealing 13 bases. An on base machine, Fowler drew 79 walks to help ignite the top of the Cubs lineup, getting on base for the sluggers behind him.
That is not to say that he is just a complimentary player. Fowler made his first All Star Game last year, and his leadoff home run in Game Seven of the World Series was one of the more iconic moments of the game.
Fowler is also expected to help improve the Cardinals defense in center. While he has been somewhat inconsistent based on defensive metrics, he had his finest season with the glove last year. In his 121 games in center, Fowler was credited with saving 16 runs despite a below average range factor. His solid arm helped him rack up six assists last year, the fifth most among National League center fielders.
The St. Louis Cardinals were in need of a player who could get on base and patrol center field. They found exactly that with Dexter Fowler.