The Chicago Cubs have declined their team option on RHP Jason Hammel, making him a free agent.
Hammel, 32, had an option that would've given him a $12 million dollar salary, but instead he will receive a $2 million dollar buyout.
Hammel had a decent year with a 3.83 ERA in 166.2 innings pitched, but a spike in the home run rate led to the Cubs leaving him off of their postseason roster. His 13.8 HR/FB rate ranked among the bottom in starting pitchers and his left on base percentage of 76 percent, well above his career average, suggested even more regression was due.
Hammel, like last year, pitched very well in the first half 3.46 ERA in 17 starts and 79-30 K-BB rate, but in the second half his numbers ballooned to a 4.35 ERA in only 13 starts and 11 home runs given up in just 70 innings.
Despite his struggles with the long ball Hammel was still mostly effective and it is a surprise to see his option decline especially since this years starting pitching free agency class is pretty weak, but it's possible the trade market could open up on that end.
No comments:
Post a Comment