With the flurry of free agency moves this offseason, there have been a number of signings that have taken place that may not have garnered enough attention. As eight and nine figure contracts are being allocated, there are signings that while may not have the same monetary value, will have the same impact for their franchise in the 2020 season. The Launch Angle's choice for the most underrated signing (so far) is Eric Sogard heading to the Milwaukee Brewers.
According to Baseball Reference, Sogard signed a one-year deal for $4 million, with a team option worth $4.5 million for 2021. With this type of contract, there is very little risk associated with the acquisition. As a player, Sogard was highly productive on the offensive and defensive sides of the game.
From an offensive perspective, Eric Sogard ranked well amongst his position counterparts in multiple statistical categories. Amongst second basemen that had at least 350 plate appearances in 2019, Sogard ranked 7th in batting average (0.290), 7th in SLG% (0.457), and 7th in wOBA (0.342). He also had an OPS of 0.810 in 2019, his highest mark since 2010 (0.984). On the defensive side of the diamond, Sogard was also effective. Amongst second basemen that played at least 550 innings at that position, he ranked 7th in Range Factor per Nine Innings (RF/9) at 4.31.
Although Sogard only played in 110 games last season, he was highly effective. The Milwaukee Brewers made an under the radar signing in Eric Sogard and he will have a tremendous impact for the organization in 2020.
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