The baseball world is buzzing with anticipation. Spring Training games are underway, the scent of freshly cut grass fills the air, and the crack of a bat signals the impending start of a new season. Yet, amidst the excitement, a sense of uncertainty lingers. Utility star Kiké Hernández is tantalizingly close to finding his new home, leaving fans wondering which team will land his versatile talents. Meanwhile, a shadow of doubt hangs over several of the game’s brightest stars.

Power pitchers, an MVP-caliber outfielder, and a Gold Glove-winning third baseman—all with impressive resumes—all clients of Scott Boras, the most powerful agent in the sport, remain unsigned. The market moves at a glacial pace, prompting a multitude of questions. Will the top-tier free agents finally secure the deals they seek, or will their paths unexpectedly intersect with the in-demand utility man?

Kiké Hernández: A Utility Man in Demand

Despite a subpar 2023 season, Hernández remains a valuable asset. His unique ability to play multiple positions with skill makes him a sought-after commodity. Hernández’s potential landing spots, as reported by The Athletic, paint a picture of diverse needs.

The San Francisco Giants seek a lefty-mashing outfielder, while the San Diego Padres crave a power bat and veteran experience. On the other hand, the Los Angeles Angels, reeling from injuries, desperately need reliable infield depth and stability, which Kiké Hernández could definitely provide. The Minnesota Twins desire a right-handed outfield presence and defensive flexibility.

In stark contrast, the hottest free agents in the current market face an uncertain future. The much-speculated “Boras Four”—Cy Young awardee Blake Snell, World Series champion Jordan Montgomery, Gold Glove winner Matt Chapman, and Silver Slugger Cody Bellinger—remain unsigned despite their impressive resumes.

Market reports suggest several teams may be out of the running for the clients of superagent Scott Boras due to financial constraints and a crowded market. Spring Training injuries, like those to the Baltimore Orioles’ Kyle Bradish and the New York Mets’ Kodai Senga, could spark renewed interest, but teams deny feeling pressure to act. It remains uncertain if asking prices will drop for these superstars.

The Intersection and the Question That Lingers

Kiké Hernández’s versatility and relative affordability make him a distinct case from the remaining Boras clients. While his market heats up, theirs remains sluggish. Could a team unsuccessful in their pursuit of the bigger names shift their focus to Hernández? Or, if a Boras client lingers too long, could they suddenly become a budget-friendly Plan B for one of Hernández’s suitors?

Read More: 12 Top Free Agents Still on the Market – Does Rob Manfred’s Deadline Proposal Hold Water?

The next few weeks promise to be pivotal in shaping these players’ fates. Will Kiké Hernández’s flexibility secure him a lucrative deal, or will waiting for the top tier to settle create even more opportunity? Will the Boras Four find teams willing to meet their demands, or will compromise become necessary?

Read More: Amidst Stalled Cody Bellinger Talks, Is Cubs GM Jed Hoyer Outdoing Scott Boras?

Only time will tell, but this captivating dance between the utility man and the superstars promises to keep fans on the edge of their seats as the final pieces of the 2024 MLB puzzle fall into place.