Debate: Best Offseason Acqusitions

The build up to the 2012 season was not without its fireworks. A lot of money was spent and a lot of contract years were granted this offseason. But which of the acquisitions are currently the best? Here are my top five:

1. Yu Darvish (TEX): Obviously, he was one of the most hyped and sought-after arms this offseason, and I am sure that the Rangers are happy with how quickly he has adjusted to Major League hitters. He is 6-1 with a 2.60 ERA in eight starts, including a dominant 10 K performance against the New York Yankees. He looks to have the tools to excel in the AL as the Rangers’ ace.

2. Carlos Beltran (STL): Admittedly, even as a Cardinals fan, I was not as excited about him signing with St. Louis as I could have been because I was still in disbelief over the departure of franchise icon Albert Pujols. However, Beltran has given Cardinal Nation reason to believe. His .299/13/32 start has helped the Cards nab top ranking in every major offensive category in the NL. If he can stay healthy, he will put up some really crooked numbers this season.

3. Gio Gonzalez (WSH): Everyone knew that Gonzalez had a great deal of talent, but I am not sure anyone expected him to be so dominant so quickly (he’s only 26). To accompany his 5-1 record, he has a 2.22 ERA, 60 Ks and a 0.99 WHIP. He is one of the main reasons why there is so much hope that the Nationals can climb out of the basement of the NL East and make a run at a division title. He also knows how to get down.

4. Raul Ibanez (NYY): When 40-year-old Ibanez and the New York Yankees agreed to a one-year, $1.1 M contract, it did not make huge headlines. However, concerns about how much he has left in the tank have been overshadowed by his surprisingly strong output. He already has eight HRs and 24 RBIs in only 114 plate appearances for the Bronx Bombers. He might have been the best bargain of the offseason.

5. Yonder Alonso (SD): He was released from the first base logjam behind Joey Votto in the Reds' minor league system when he was traded to the San Diego Padres. It seems that this rookie is the centerpiece of the Padres' rebuilding plans. His early season power numbers are not that impressive, but he has already shown that he can develop into a major force at first base in the NL for many years to come.

Also considered: Melky Cabrera (SF), Prince Fielder (DET), Edwin Jackson (WSH), Josh Reddick (OAK), and Josh Willingham (MIN).

Those are my selections, but I want to know who you think were the best acquisitions this offseason. The debate gauntlet has been thrown down. Leave a comment and tweet @KyleOKC and @MLBFanCave with your thoughts.