Even though no one seems to be talking about him right now, Carlos Rodon is coming off one of the best seasons in recent MLB history.
The White Sox pitcher was dominant and struck out his rivals nearly 40% of the time throughout the first half of the season.
Unfortunately, injuries took a toll on him and he wasn’t able to top 80 pitches more than once during the final stretch of the campaign, which is why some teams are wary of overpaying for his services.
Rodon Is Worth The Risk
Rodon posted a solid 2.37 ERA with a 0.957 WHIP over 132.2 innings and a 13-5 record in 24 starts. He also struck out 185 while walking just 36 hitters.
He was one of the leading candidates to win the Cy Young Award in the American League before hitting the IL.
Superagent Scott Boras has already stated that Rodon is looking to sign a long-term contract after making just $ 3 million last season.
So, even with the doubts about his health, let’s take a look at the teams that should roll the dice on him.
3. New York Yankees
Somehow, someway, and for reasons we may never fully understand; the New York Yankees simply refuse to address their shaky rotation.
Corey Kluber is beyond his prime, and Gerrit Cole and Jordan Montgomery can’t pitch every day.
Domingo German was fairly awful for most of the year, Luis Severino can’t stay healthy, and both Clarke Schmidt and Deivi García have left a lot to be desired when they’ve been healthy.
The Yankees need a shortstop, yes. But they also crave a trustworthy pitcher.
2. San Francisco Giants
The San Francisco Giants are coming off a historical season but losing Kevin Gausman in free agency is going to be tough to overcome.
The Giants were on the mix for Justin Verlander but now that he’s off the table, adding Rodon would most likely be their only shot at a top-notch arm at a decent price.
Even so, it’s not like the team is shorthanded at options, as they still have Anthony DeSclafani, Logan Webb, and Alex Wood; but some may not think that’s enough to keep up with the rest of the NL West.
1. Los Angeles Dodgers
Even if they don’t want to admit it, the Los Angeles Dodgers should be desperate to add another reliable arm to the mound.
Losing Max Scherzer was a massive blow and Dustin May is coming off a season-ending injury. Clayton Kershaw is expected to draw plenty of attention in free agency, and rumors state that he could join the Rangers.
Oh, remember Trevor Bauer? Yeah, he’s not likely to be back. Like, ever. So, the Dodgers need to act fast with the Giants and Padres looking to take their crown.
]]>The Inquisitr
