MLB free agency: Jay Bruce interested in Rangers, Astros as destinations

About a week after it was reported that Jay Bruce was seeking a multi-year contract in the $80-$90 million range, Abbey Mastracco of NJ.com writes that Bruce would prefer to sign with the Texas Rangers or Houston Astros this offseason.

Bruce, who turns 31 next April, is from Beaumont, Texas, so is appears that he would like to play in his home state if there is a fit on either of those two rosters. It was also reported last week that the Blue Jays, Giants, Cardinals, and Mariners were all interested in the services of Bruce. The Indians will also enter the mix at some point.

Bruce is coming off one of the best seasons of his career, where he slashed .254/.324/.508 with 36 homers, 101 RBIs, and 29 doubles. Bruce was also a threat in the postseason with two dingers, one double, and four RBIs in the ALDS.

With the strong showing this season, Bruce will be one of the top hitters on the free agent market this winter. It comes as no surprise that there are a number of potential suitors for his services, and he will be an interesting player to keep an eye on to see how his market develops early in the offseason.