3 Potential Landing Spots for Free-Agent SP Jon Gray
The MLB free agency period opens on Monday and one name to watch out for is starting pitcher Jon Gray. The Colorado Rockies hurler is hitting the open market after an up and down season, and there's going to be a tremendous amount of interest in signing the righty.
Gray went 8-12 last season for the Rockies, pitching to a 4.59 ERA. While his ERA and walk totals are a little high for some, his 157 strikeouts in 149 innings certainly has the attention of some general managers. Gray was someone a number of teams had interest in acquiring at the trade deadline last season but nothing materialized out of Colorado. Gray's a career 53-49 pitcher over his seven year career and at 30 years old will certainly land a multi-year contract.
3 Teams Who Could Sign Gray
San Diego Padres: The Padres tried hard to acquire Gray at the deadline last season, however the Rockies were asking for the moon. The team is looking to fill the back end of their rotation with depth as the injury bug can't seem to leave their roster alone. Gray knows what it's all about pitching in the NL west and that's where most of the interest will lie in his services.
Los Angeles Dodgers: Gray isn't Max Scherzer, however he could certainly be replacing his innings for the Dodgers next season. Gray is going to be the fall back option for LA should they lose Scherzer to another mega-offer elsewhere.
New York Yankees: The Yankees drafted Gray back in 2011 in the 10th round, however Gray decided not to sign. The Rockies then turned around and drafted him in 2013, in the first round third overall. The Yanks are looking, as per usual, for some more arms this winter and have Gray circled as a very likely option. It's going to take a three year deal minimum to get it done for Gray and his agent Scott Boras so expect the number to be pushing $20 million annually. The Yankees never have an issue opening up their wallets. Gray made $6 million last season in Colorado.
Photo credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Post a Comment