In what is a generally weak pitching market, one of the more intriguing arms has reached a deal with an American League team.
According to Jerry Crasnik, pitcher Jesse Chavez has agreed to a one-year deal with the Los Angeles Angels.
Jesse Chavez has agreed to a one-year, $5.75M deal with the #Angels. Can make $3M more in incentives. Signed as a starter.
— Jerry Crasnick (@jcrasnick) November 11, 2016
Los Angeles Angels Sign Jesse Chavez
Chavez at just under $6 million a year is a very shrewd move. Considering the fact that pitchers are bound to be overpaid this offseason, this is a great deal for the Angels.
Chavez has started in year’s past with the Oakland Athletics, but last year he served as a reliever for both the Toronto Blue Jays and the Los Angels Dodgers. He recorded a mediocre 4.43 ERA, while logging 67 innings in 2016. He is not a dominant pitcher by any stretch, but his ability to start and relieve interchangeably make him a valuable asset. The Angles situation with their current free agent pitchers also makes Chavez a good get.
Starting pitchers Jered Weaver and C.J. Wilson are both on the free agent market, and are unlikely to return to the Angels next season. As a result, it appears Chavez will be plugged into the rotation. If the Angels pull off a trade, or sign a couple pitchers, Chavez could become a long man out of the bullpen.
In terms of potential pitching targets, Philadelphia Phillies arm Jeremy Hellickson, Kansas City Royals righty Edinson Volquez, and Dodgers lefty Rich Hill could be players who the Angels may pursue. On the other hand, the Angels could look at the trade market to upgrade their rotation; options include Washington Nationals lefty Gio Gonzalez, Michael Pineda of the New York Yankees, and Julio Teheran, if the Atlanta Braves decide to complete the fire sale and make him available.
With slim pickings among free agent pitchers and in potential trades, the Los Angeles Angles made a very good move by bringing in Jesse Chavez on a one-year deal.
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