MLB Rumors: 2 Teams Favorites to Sign SP J.A Happ

J.A Happ has been one of the most consistent southpaws in the MLB for nearly a decade and the veteran starter appears set for another season in 2022. He's coming off a season where the 39-year-old made $8 million with the St Louis Cardinals and while the door isn't necessarily closed for a return it sounds like two teams are expected to have more interest than the Cards.

New York Yankees

The Yankees never shut the door on returns and Happ could be the latest to circle back on the franchise. He spent three seasons in the Bronx and went a combined 31-16 and was dominant at times. Happ doesn't light up the radar gun ever but his delivery is deceptive and his ability to change speeds let's his 91-92 MPH fastball sneak up on hitters. The Yankees are expected to offer a one-year deal around $7 million. After a season where Happ made 30 starts for the Cardinals, you can't blame the Yanks for considering the lefty for the back of their rotation.

Toronto Blue Jays

Happ and his family enjoyed their time immensely in Toronto and they had a tremendous impact on the community while Happ was a Blue Jay for the 2016 and 2017 seasons. He went a combined 30-15 over those two seasons and it was tough for the franchise to see him head off to one of their rivals. The Jays are trying to add depth to their rotation even after signing Jose Berrios to an extension and adding Kevin Gausman on a massive ticket. Toronto isn't sure what they have just yet in youngster Nate Pearson so look for management to add a familiar face like Happ who they know exactly what he brings to the table. While the Yankees will be in the mix, the Blue Jays should be considered the heavy favorite.