The Toronto Blue Jays likely ended their chances of re-signing outfielder Melky Cabrera when they lavished $82 million over five years on catcher Russell Martin, but it seems Cabrera wasn't particularly interested in returning anyway.
According to ESPN's Buster Olney, Cabrera's preference is to sign elsewhere because he didn't like playing on the artificial turf of Toronto's Rogers Centre.
Melky Cabrera's preference is to sign with a team other than the Blue Jays so he doesn't have to play his home games on artificial surface.
— Buster Olney (@Buster_ESPN) November 28, 2014
The Jays were four games over .500 last season thanks to a powerful offense that ranked second in the American League in home runs and fourth in runs per game. Cabrera contributed 16 of those home runs, and slashed .301/.351/.458.
2014 marked a very nice rebound for Cabrera after he battled injuries and more steroid allegations the previous season, and several teams are expected to pursue him.
The Seattle Mariners are reportedly seeking outfield help-specifically players that will provide offense. They have discussed Nelson Cruz, the 2014 MLB home run leader, as well as making a deal for Dodgers outfielder Matt Kemp.
Cabrera doesn't have the power of either Cruz or Kemp, but he's four years younger than Cruz and more durable than Kemp. He also would cost only money, and not any prospects.
The Chicago White Sox have expressed some interest in signing Cabrera, along with the Baltimore Orioles who seem to be preparing for Cruz's departure.
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