Phillies: Top 5 worst free agent signings of the last decade

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PHILADELPHIA, PA – MAY 22: Michael Saunders #5 of the Philadelphia Phillies in the dugout during a game against of the Colorado Rockies at Citizens Bank Park on May 22, 2017 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Rich Schultz/Getty Images) /

#3. Michael Saunders

As the Phillies excessively long rebuilding process continued on into the late 2010s, it became clear the team had finally stumbled upon some legit gems. Led by Aaron Nola (and eventually by Rhys Hoskins as well), the Phillies were hoping to push their way back over the .500 mark. After winning 71 games the year prior, it was a completely achievable goal.

In order to win that extra ten games, the Phillies felt they needed to add a little extra firepower to the batting order. Turning their eyes to the lackluster outfield they currently employed, it made sense to make an upgrade there.

Coming off the first All-Star selection of his career, right fielder Michael Saunders arose as the top target for the Phils. At just 30 years old, the team was hoping to get a few more good years out of the former Blue Jay.

The Phillies inked Saunders to a one-year deal worth $8 million dollars, with a club option for the following season. With the potential of up to $17 million dollars invested into the veteran over the next two years, the team was seriously banking on Saunders to be the team’s primary run producer.

Just 61 games into his Philly tenure and Saunders’ MLB career was all but over. Saunder hit just .205, knocking in a measly 20 RBIs and 6 home runs. Despite being the fourth highest paid player on the roster, Saunders was cut not even halfway through the 2017 season.

Eight million dollars down the drain.

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