Melky Cabrera is likely to sign a one-year contract as a free agent this winter, according to the opinions of Major League executives.

Cabrera could earn between $2 million and $10 million annually.

He got off to a blistering start for the Giants in 2012, winning the All-Star Game MVP, but was then suspended 50 games for violating baseball's performance-enhancing drug policy.

"He might be a good gamble for a team like the Astros or the Indians," a National League scout said. "If you give him a short-term deal and go year to year and keep the carrot in front of him, you might get a pretty productive player. Use it as a motivational tool. Control his ability to put his nose to the grindstone and get the most out of him. I wouldn't walk away from the guy, personally."