Americans join the Fight!

With very little talent to work with, The Americans ventured out into free agency for the first time under new management. The goal this offseason was simple. The Americans are not going to compete in the short term. The target in free agency was to acquire some decent players to round out a roster, and target some players that can be flipped for picks or youth at the trade deadline. At close, the Americans accomplished both goals as well as could be expected. Let's meet the new Americans!


C - Sheldon Williams


Sheldon was a star on the Duke basketball team, but opted to play baseball in the pro's. He is a 3 time All-Star, who had some exceptional years in the league, but at 37 is most valuable for his prowess behind the plate. He has thrown out 43% of runners in his career, and holds a .995 career fielding percentage. He was acquired to provide some defensive stability behind the plate in the short term. Juan Carmen has shown very little promise behind the plate, or standing next to it. Joshua Barson is still a work in progress. This was a great signing with the goals in mind.


1B - Pat Norman


Pat is coming off of an All-Star season with the Loggers. He spent most of his career in Portland, but played his first pro ball here in Brooklyn in '23. He was expected to be a serviceable starter at first back then, and that is the intent with this signing. At 29, the contract is a little long, but the need for a bat, and the lack of talent on the roster, finds him a home.


2B - Jose Calderon Jr


With the loss of Chavi Rosales, second base was a huge hole going into the offseason. Jose Calderon Jr more than fills that hole. Easily the most impactful signing of the offseason for the Americans, Jose will keep the position strong for a while, then provide ample support in the latter years of the deal.


2B - Paulino Estevez


This was strictly a need signing. Depth was a concern, and Estevez was overpaid to come in and solidify the depth. While the contract is a bit large for the talent level, it is also short enough to not have much long term effect. Estevez will provide adequate backup at second for this season and next. He brings 3 All-Star selections with him.


OF - John Robertson


Robertson was primarily acquired for his bat. His defense does not fit the expectations of this organization. He is a short term investment that has yet to hit his prime. He will most likely fill the DH slot, and be a 4th OF.


RP - Manny Banuelos


Manny is a starting pitcher on the twilight of his career. However he has earned 2 All-Star selections since converting to the pen, as well as 1 as a starter. He was acquired to bring some short term stability to an otherwise chaotic mess.