San Francisco Giants: Under the radar free agent options

Oct 9, 2015; St. Louis, MO, USA; St. Louis Cardinals starting pitcher John Lackey reacts after inducing a double play to end the top of the 7th inning in game one of the NLDS against the Chicago Cubs at Busch Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Rovak-USA TODAY Sports

RHP John Lackey

According to Nick Cafardo of the Boston Globe, the San Francisco Giants and Chicago Cubs are the two most likely destinations for free agent pitcher John Lackey. Lackey is a 13-year veteran who seems to mirror fine wine, in that he seems to get better with age.

Coming off of one of his best seasons, the 37-year-old Lackey posted a career best 2.77 ERA, led the majors in total starts, and was ninth in NL Cy Young award voting. Although most pitchers lose velocity as they age, leading to an decrease in production, Lackey has averaged in between 91 and 92 mph on his fastball every year since 2007.

While San Francisco would like to add a David Price or Zack Greinke, look for Lackey to be a fallback option if they miss out on one of these aces. Lackey is full of postseason experience, and he would be an ideal candidate for the number two or three spot in the rotation. Lackey will be looking for a 2 or 3 year contract worth between $30 and $45 million, which is affordable.

Next: Juan Uribe