Many teams in MLB target big names during free agency, focusing on high-salaried players and sometimes neglecting the mid-tier or lower-tier options.
In contrast, teams like the Cleveland Guardians typically explore the more affordable options. Instead of investing $150 million in a single player, they search for undervalued, imperfect players or reclamation projects, aiming to enhance their performance through coaching and player development.
According to Bleacher Report, the Cleveland Guardians are set to sign 27-year-old to a low-cost two-year contract, and this move makes a lot of sense.
In 25 appearances and nine starts last season, he recorded a 4.74 ERA over 79.2 innings pitched.
With a need for starting pitchers, the Guardians could work their developmental magic on Soroka, who has had success in that role in the past.
However, a closer examination reveals that Soroka actually excelled after transitioning to a bullpen role, and it might make sense for the Guardians to keep him there.
As Bleacher Report points out, when Soroka moved to a multi-inning relief role, he thrived, posting a 2.75 ERA while striking out 39% of the batters he faced. Given his success in this role and his youth, they argue that taking a chance on him is a smart move.
The Guardians already boast the best bullpen in baseball, but adding Soroka as a multi-inning weapon could make it even stronger and allow them to more effectively manage a starter’s workload during games.
Soroka could also be a valuable asset for a postseason roster.
If he does sign for $12 million over two years, the Guardians would be the ideal team to offer him that contract.
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