10 biggest bargains in MLB free agency
4. Tyler Clippard
Despite his funky pitching mechanics and mannerisms, Tyler Clippard has established himself as one of the games most reliable relievers. Clippard sports a career ERA of 2.88 and averages 1.1 strikeouts per inning and a career WHIP of 1.09. The two-time all-star has served a variety of bullpen roles throughout his eight-year career, most notably as a stopper for the Washington Nationals. He was responsible for 40 holds during the 2014 season, 33 holds during the 2013 season, and saved 32 games in 2012.
At thirty-years of age he still has plenty left to offer in the back end of the bullpen and can either serve as a middle-reliever or closer. His pitching mechanics create a lot of deception towards hitters so a drop in velocity shouldn’t hurt him later in his career. Clippard’s deception helps him even more with his change-up, his best pitch. There are very few teams in the major league’s that wouldn’t benefit from his services. At this point in his career though, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him land with a team that gives him a chance to be the closer opening day. Teams with serious bullpen issues such as the Padres, Reds, Braves, and Rangers could be potential landing spots.
Next: 3. Ryan Raburn