Gerrit Cole Free Agency Destinations

The Houston Astros were defeated by the Washington Nationals in Game 7 of the World Series Wednesday night, but they will likely be losing something else as well in the very near future. Gerrit Cole is now a free agent, and if his postgame interview is any indication, he won't be suiting up for the Astros next season. Here are four teams who have a shot at landing the three-time MLB All-Star this offseason.

5. New York Yankees

League Championship Series - New York Yankees v Houston Astros - Game Six / Tim Warner/Getty Images

Everybody knows that the Yankees aren't afraid to spend big money, even though they haven't spent it on pitching in quite some time. Cole could be the guy that takes them to the next level, and perhaps the ace they were waiting for. Never forget New York drafted the fireballer back in 2008 before Cole ultimately decided to play college ball instead.

4. Texas Rangers

Texas Rangers v Baltimore Orioles / Will Newton/Getty Images

The Rangers will have some spending money to play with this offseason. Cole has already thrown some shade at the Astros following their World Series loss, so why not double down and sign with their in-state rival? Signing Cole would not only improve their chances next season, but it would also hurt Houston's chances in the AL West. Texas has to pounce, at some point. And doesn't he just feel like Nolan Ryan?

3. Los Angeles Dodgers

Divisional Series - Los Angeles Dodgers v Washington Nationals - Game Three / Will Newton/Getty Images

LA was the preeminent favorite in the National League (and has been for several seasons now) until the postseason hit. Walker Buehler is a certified young ace with nerves of steel, but Clayton Kershaw is aging, and Hyun-Jin Ryu is likely to depart in free agency. We've heard plenty of rumors about Cole leaving for LA. Why wouldn't he consider the LA team that's actually good?

2. Philadelphia Phillies

Philadelphia Phillies v Washington Nationals / G Fiume/Getty Images

After inking Bryce Harper to a huge deal last offseason, the Phillies need to begin filling out the rest of their roster. Philadelphia's pitching was a glaring weakness in 2019. Adding Cole to their rotation wouldn't solve all of their problems, but it would be a dramatic improvement for them on the mound, especially when paired with Aaron Nola. Is it time to dish out stupid money?

1. Los Angeles Angels

Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim v Los Angeles Dodgers / Victor Decolongon/Getty Images

The Angels are another team that doesn't shy away from handing out big money contracts, and Cole's teammates seem to think he's heading west. They need to get superstar center fielder Mike Trout some help if they want to be competitive next season. Although there are other areas of their roster that need to be addressed, adding Cole would certainly be a step in the right direction.