This offseason’s free-agent class is expected to include four elite shortstops: Trea Turner, Dansby Swanson, Carlos Correa (who has declared he is opting out of his contract) and Xander Bogaerts (who is expected to do the same).

Plenty of big-market teams will need a shortstop this winter. That list will likely include the Braves, Dodgers, Giants, Red Sox, Angels, Cubs, Twins and maybe even the Yankees. Then there are the teams that could pursue these players if they decide to ask their current shortstop to change positions, or they might even ask one of these shortstops to change positions. That group could include teams such as the Mariners, White Sox and Phillies. Another factor to consider: The shift restrictions that are starting in 2023 will make infield range more important, which should increase the value of all four of these players.

With the World Series beginning Friday, we’re edging closer to the start of free agency, so just for fun, I decided to play musical chairs with these four special shortstops and try to find realistic new homes for them this offseason. To be clear, these are not predictions for where I think they will sign. But the suggested teams are good fits for these players, if they decide to leave their current clubs. (Of course, some of them could re-sign with their teams.)

Now, I’ll take a swing at where Correa, Turner, Bogaerts and Swanson could land this offseason if they don’t re-sign with their teams.

Stats are from the 2022 season unless otherwise noted. WAR numbers are according to Baseball Reference. 

1. Carlos Correa

Best new team fit: Giants
Early contract prediction: 10 years, $345 million

Age: 28
Height: 6-4 Weight: 220
Bats: R Throws: R

WAR: 5.4 Career WAR: 39.5
Slash line: .291/.366/.467
2B: 24 HR: 22 RBI: 64 SB: 0

Correa was making $35.1 million per year with the Twins, and he was happy with the average annual value of his contract, but what he really wants is a long-term home. He hopes to land a mega long-term contract like Corey Seager got from the Rangers last offseason and Francisco Lindor got from the Mets in 2021. There is no reason to think Correa won’t get that type of contract this winter, as long as his medicals check out. Correa is an above-average defender who hits for average and power. The Twins’ front office and field staff rave about his positive influence on young players and the culture he helped create in their clubhouse this season. He had that reputation with the Astros as well.

Once the Giants find out Aaron Judge is re-signing with the Yankees, I think they will make a strong push for Correa. Their new general manager, Pete Putila, was with Correa in the Astros organization, and he has already discussed his interest in the star shortstop with team president Farhan Zaidi. Correa is represented by Scott Boras, who will aim for a contract that’s a bit higher than what he secured for Seager last December. Expect the deal to include a full no-trade clause, which is a priority for Correa.