With the 2012 season now officially underway, It seems like an appropriate time to look ahead at three potential big money free agents come the offseason:

Cole Hamels: After this season, Hamels will be the games top free agent pitcher and should demand big money. While

there have been extension talks between Hamels and the Phillies, they currently appear stagnant and free agency seems likely for the lefthanded Hamels. As for a potential contract, Matt Cain’s recent extension seems a solid comparable, and with a variety of big market clubs in need of pitching, a deal in the range of 6 years, $120 million dollar seems likely.

Zack Greinke: Greinke, another top-flight pitcher, will presumably search for a deal similar to Hamels, but previous anxiety issues could scare away many big markets clubs altogether. Because teams such as the Yankees and Dodgers presumably won’t be interested, Greinke may have to settle for a deal similar to Jered Weavers five year, $85 million dollar deal.

Nick Swisher: In a weak offensive free-agent class this offseason, Swisher could potentially be the best bat on the market. While many believed that the Yankees would resign Swisher, it is quickly becoming apparent that they let Swisher go due to his high price tag and poor postseason performances. As for a potential contract value, Swisher will shoot for a deal similiar to Jason Werths $126 million dollar deal, but many within the industry believe that Swishers deal will be worth much less, closer to a 4-5 year deal aroudn $80 million dollars.

So those are three potential headliners of the 2012 offseason. Which player would you like your club to sign? Who will receive the biggest free agent deal?