Chicago White Sox: Where Will Jake Peavy Pitch in 2013?

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To put it quite simply, Jake Peavy has had an interesting time with the Chicago White Sox.

While he isn't Jamie Navarro, he's certainly no Jose Contreras.

Nevertheless, the 2007 NL Cy Young Winner has had his ups and downs on the South Side.

At times, he's been flat out brilliant.  At others, fans just cringe at the thought of his arm disconnecting from his back.  Needless to say, it's been a rocky road.

There's one thing for sure- Peavy has been a gamer. During his time in a Sox uniform, the righty has given it his all.

Too bad, teams don't pick up $22 million options for pitchers who try their hardest.

If the Sox can't bring him back at a cheaper rate, Peavy will find himself in his third major league uniform.

Who'll take the chance?

Los Angeles Dodgers

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While I don't think Southern California will be his final destination, the club's newfound unlimited wallet suggests that this fit is a possibility.

Why I think it could work: To state the obvious, Peavy knows the division.  Between 2004 and 2007, there was arguably nobody better in the National League. 

He can go to LA and pitch behind Clayton Kershaw and Co. while contending for the National League pennant next season.

Oh yeah.  Did I mention that he gets to pitch in the NL West? I could go 8-14 with a 5.40 ERA and 1.40 WHIP out there.

Houston Astros

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If Jake Peavy decides that winning a World Series isn't essential, I could see him headlining the Houston Astros' starting rotation come 2013.

Why I think it could work: Houston's close to home for the Alabama native.  He could pitch the Astros into the American League and be the team's ace.  If he deems those things important, it could happen.  

While this might be a little far-fetched, it could happen if the Astros throw enough dough at him.

Hey, the organization has to fill the seats somehow.

Texas Rangers

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The more likely of the two Lone Star destinations, the Texas Rangers might be a solid fit.  Arlington's relatively close to home, the Rangers need pitching help and Peavy could get a chance at a ring.

Given the Rangers' contractual obligations as well the club's desire to retain slugger Josh Hamilton, Peavy might have to bite the bullet and take less money.

From Texas' perspective, he certainly has to be better than the Roy Oswalt experiment.  Given the injury problems to Colby Lewis and Neftali Feliz, the team could definitely use some depth.

This one wouldn't be a shocker.

Atlanta Braves

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Talk about playing close to home, Atlanta surely seems like a place Peavy would want to pitch.

Given concerns regarding Jair Jurrjens, Tommy Hanson and Mike Minor, the Braves would probably have some interest in bringing on another veteran.

The organization can't seriously believe that former Brewers ace Ben Sheets can be counted on for an entire season.  These type of things just don't happen.

I can imagine Peavy taking over for Tim Hudson down the road as the consistent, veteran presence on the mound.  Given the park's spacious dimensions, Peavy's HR rate would most likely decline at Turner Field in Atlanta compared to U.S. Cellular Field in Chicago.

New York Yankees

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Let me ask you a question.  When are the Yankees not on the radar when it comes to snagging a big name on the downside of his career? Never.

But seriously, this could be a fit.  The 2012 Yankees are a team that has seen CC Sabathia hit the DL, Ivan Nova struggle with inconsistency and freaking Hiroki Kuroda look like the ace of the team.

Needless to say, they could use another arm.  Peavy might just be that for the Bronx Bombers.  They'd likely offer him two years at roughly $6 million-$7 million apiece.

With a chance at a ring, Peavy would certainly consider it.

Conclusion

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While I hope that Peavy doesn't leave the South Side, we can't afford to pay him more than $5 million a season. 

At this point in his career, he's just not worth the risk. The White Sox have to make decisions on picking up the options of 3B Kevin Youkilis and  SP Gavin Floyd.  

While the White Sox won't pick up his $22 million option for 2013, I would definitely like to see him back at a cheaper price.

If not, then enjoy Houston.