Fansided

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 /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
8 of 8
Next
Oct 28, 2015; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Johnny Cueto (47) throws a pitch against the New York Mets in the 9th inning in game two of the 2015 World Series at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 28, 2015; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Johnny Cueto (47) throws a pitch against the New York Mets in the 9th inning in game two of the 2015 World Series at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports /

1) Johnny Cueto

The obvious name coming in at No. 1 on this list of the best remaining MLB free agent pitchers is former Kansas City Royals star, Johnny Cueto.

The Dominican Republic native is the only rotation ace remaining on the market, making the demand for him high. This is especially given guys like Zack Greinke and David Price being signed by teams.

In his first turn in the American League, Cueto struggled, posting a 4.76 ERA, 1.45 WHIP and only 6.2 strikeouts per 9 innings in 13 starts with the Royals. However, he would help lead them to the World Series, which will somewhat negate those numbers.

Before the trade from the Cincinnati Reds, Cueto dominated the National League for years, as he was in the midst of a fifth straight season of an ERA below 3.00. Heading back to the NL may be best for him if he wants to replicate those numbers.

After losing out on Greinke, the Los Angeles Dodgers may be the frontrunner for Cueto. They will be looking to get similar production behind former Cy Young award winner Clayton Kershaw so he doesn’t have to carry the burden. Other options include the New York Yankees, Boston Red Sox and St. Louis Cardinals, who have the money to spend.

Home/MLB Free Agency