San Diego Padres Add Free Agent Pitcher

He began his career as a starting pitcher, but as the years went on, the New York Mets transitioned him into the bullpen. Now a 7-year veteran, Seth Lugo will once again get his chance to start, signing a two-year deal with the San Diego Padres. 

Seth Lugo's agreement with the Padres is expected to be for two years and just north of $15 million, with an opt-out after 2023, source tells The Athletic.

— Fabian Ardaya (@FabianArdaya) December 19, 2022

The Los Angeles Dodgers were in the mix to sign Lugo as well, and were also offering a starting job, but the Padres won out. Dodgers beat reporter Fabian Ardaya says it's a 2-year contract worth $15M, but Lugo will have an opt-out after 2023.

Lugo has pitched well for the Mets over the years, compiling a 3.48 ERA in his seven seasons, with a 1.16 WHIP and an impressive 9.2-to-2.5 strikeout-to-walk ratio. 

The 33-year-old right-hander, interestingly, has fared much better, however, as a reliever, with a career ERA out of the bullpen of 2.91, compared to a 4.35 ERA in 38 games—none since 2020—as a starter. Nevertheless, the Friars will give him a shot in the rotation. 

San Diego is also committing a rotation spot to reliever Nick Martinez, who did start on 10 occasions this past season out of 47 appearances. 

Photo:  Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports