After spending 15 years in the Twins’ organization and nearly a decade on their major league roster, Max Kepler is entering free agency for the first time this offseason. The German-born outfielder ranks 13th in franchise history with 161 home runs, but has struggled with consistency at the plate in recent years. He is set to continue his MLB career with a new team in 2025.
Which teams might be a good fit for Kepler? While the Yankees, who just acquired Cody Bellinger, aren’t an option, several other teams could show interest in a veteran like Kepler, including the following four:
Pittsburgh Pirates
There’s been some buzz on social media suggesting the Pirates are interested in Kepler. Given his struggles last season, he’s likely to come at a more affordable price this offseason, making him an appealing option for a smaller-market team. Pittsburgh had a poor offense this past season and received minimal production from players like Edward Olivares, Bryan De La Cruz, and Connor Joe in right field. If Kepler can tap into the offensive potential he showed in 2023, he could provide a significant boost to the Pirates.
Cincinnati Reds
The Reds, another NL Central team with offensive struggles this year, could also be a fit for Kepler. When he’s performing at his best, Kepler offers a higher offensive ceiling than Cincinnati’s current right fielder, Jake Fraley. Playing in the lefty-friendly Great American Ball Park could help him bounce back in terms of power. Kepler is also an excellent defender and might be best suited for a strong-side platoon role at this stage in his career. During his time with the Twins, he posted a .778 OPS against right-handed pitchers and a .655 OPS against lefties.
Colorado Rockies
The Pirates, White Sox, and Rockies were the three teams that received the worst production from their right fielders in 2024. Given that Kepler is likely to sign a one-year, prove-it deal to position himself for a better contract next offseason, joining the most hitter-friendly environment in baseball could be appealing. Colorado, which has lost 100 games in consecutive seasons, had Jake Cave as its primary right fielder last year, so Kepler would represent a significant upgrade. Before his down season, Kepler consistently posted between 1.9 and 4.0 WAR in his first seven full seasons, and he offers a relatively safe floor when healthy.
Toronto Blue Jays
For a more competitive team, Kepler could also be a good fit with a contender that missed out on players like Juan Soto, Cody Bellinger, and Kyle Tucker. The Blue Jays, for example, could use another left-handed bat to complement the right-handed power of stars like Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Bo Bichette, and George Springer. While Springer currently plays right field, Kepler might have to take on some center or left field duties if he joins Toronto. Despite likely signing a one-year deal with a rebuilding team, Kepler could still land with a contender in need of depth.
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