Who? That’s right folks, Mr. Pavano. He’ll be a very intriguing free agent. He has officially made his comeback to the Yankees in the final year of his then-unprecedented contract (four years, $39.95 million).
He has pitched well since his return and could be a major player in the offseason. If he would agree to a one-year, incentive laden contract, a team could be making a real steal.
Kyle Lohse/Braden Looper, RHPs
These two really go together. Both have seen time as the St. Louis Cardinals de facto ace, and both are solid No. 3 pitchers. If they’re given a lead, they’ll generally hold it and give six or seven innings. They both know how to pitch and will look to cash in on solid 2008 seasons.
Brandon Lyon/Juan Cruz, RHPs
These two were suppose to be the closers for the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2008. Lyon won the job and did a solid job, up until the middle of August. Though he’s still the registered closer, Cruz is still a solid arm. Both could be solid closers for a contending team, and both have proven to be lights out set-up men.
Francisco Rodriguez, RHP
K-Rod (as he’s better known) could be a free agent, only time will tell. He’ll be looking for $15 million a season over four or five years. Why not? He’s certainly worth it. Sure, there’s no telling how his arm will hold up, but you can’t argue with the single-season saves leader. He has over 200 career saves, and he’s going to be 27 in early January.
Well, there you have it. Those are the best of the best when it comes to free agent arms.
As I said earlier, this is one of five articles examining the upcoming free-agent market. Part II is coming tomorrow, with Parts III-V coming in the three days following.
Following the end of this five-part series, there will be a four-day, eight-article period in which I’ll hand out the awards for the season (Gold Gloves, Most Valuable Players, Cy Youngs, and Rookie of the Years).
I hope you enjoy today and the next eight days.
As always, you can see the potential 2009 free agents here.
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