Blake Snell was not imagined to be on this place.
He had been thought-about one of many high gamers accessible in free company. MLB.com ranked Snell as the third-best free agent within the 2023-24 offseason, second amongst accessible pitchers. He had a dominant exhibiting in 2023, posting a serious league-leading 2.25 ERA and a 1.189 WHiP over his 180 innings, hanging out 234 batters with 99 walks. He received his second profession Cy Younger Award and, at 31 years previous, would seemingly be a constructing block for any groups.
Therein lies the issue. Whereas groups have been related to Snell all through the offseason, the Yankees are the one workforce to make an official offer. Bob Nightengale from USA Today previously reported that Snell is looking for greater than $200M in his subsequent contract. As Snell has struggled with well being and consistency, it’s comprehensible that groups would look askance at that asking value. Nonetheless, Snell is a possible difference-maker. Some workforce will take the possibility.
The place will Snell signal? Let’s check out three potentialities.
New York Yankees
The Yankees had seemingly moved on from Snell once they signed Marcus Stroman. Jon Heyman of the New York Post reported as such on Feb. 1 because the Yankees have been carried out taking a look at free-agent starters. Issues have modified since then. The Orioles have new possession and instantly acquired Corbin Burnes. The Yankees need Snell now if they will contend within the AL East. Regardless of these statements in any other case, it is smart for the Yankees to revisit these talks.
Los Angeles Angels
The Angels have been making an attempt to maneuver on from the Shohei Ohtani Period. They’ve remade the bullpen as soon as once more, added depth to the roster, and have been working to enhance. Susan Slusser of the San Francisco Chronicle reported again in December that the Angels have been exhibiting curiosity in Snell. He would have the ability to step in as their ace, nominally changing Ohtani within the rotation. Whereas he wouldn’t be sufficient on his personal to make the Angels a contender, he can be a step in that route. And he can be somebody that the workforce may promote as an indication of hope for the longer term.
San Francisco Giants
Slusser additionally reported that the Giants have been contemplating Snell. Such curiosity is smart even with the acquisition of Robbie Ray, because the Dodgers have drastically improved and have expanded the hole within the NL West. Nonetheless, Ray just isn’t anticipated again till mid-season on the earliest. Snell would assist bridge that hole, offering one other top-of-the-rotation caliber arm whereas Ray may assist for the stretch run. He would additionally give the Giants a co-ace to workforce up with Logan Webb. Snell might have his personal query marks, however signing him to a long-term deal ought to assist the Giants contend for the following few years.