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MLB Free Agency: 7 best pitchers left on the market

By Rob Wolkenbrod

Oct 28, 2015; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Johnny Cueto (47) reacts after throwing a complete game to defeat the New York Mets in game two of the 2015 World Series at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Peter G. Aiken-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 28, 2015; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Johnny Cueto (47) reacts after throwing a complete game to defeat the New York Mets in game two of the 2015 World Series at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Peter G. Aiken-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 8, 2015; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Texas Rangers starting pitcher Yovani Gallardo throws a pitch against the Toronto Blue Jays in the first inning in game one of the ALDS at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Peter Llewellyn-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 8, 2015; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Texas Rangers starting pitcher Yovani Gallardo throws a pitch against the Toronto Blue Jays in the first inning in game one of the ALDS at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Peter Llewellyn-USA TODAY Sports /

6) Yovani Gallardo

There was a time where Yovani Gallardo was among the best young starting pitchers in baseball. He was striking out over a batter per inning and was the No. 1 starter for Milwaukee Brewers. However, his numbers have fallen off in recent years.

Gallardo’s walk rate was always high (3.3 per 9 innings) but he began getting hit hard. Over the past two seasons, he has allowed more hits than innings pitched, which never bodes well for a starting pitcher.

However, what helps Gallardo is his ability to stay healthy, which has almost become a skill in today’s MLB. Pitchers constantly go down with arm injuries and luckily for the Mexico native, he has started 30 games every year since 2009. This will help when teams talk to him about a contract.

At this point in Gallardo’s career, the 29-year-old fits best as a mid-rotation starter. He could fit in with a team in a big ballpark like the Seattle Mariners since he allows his fair share of home runs. Another option could be the San Diego Padres if they need to replace Ian Kennedy.

Next: No. 5 Ian Kennedy

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