MLB Stock Analysis: Offseason Pitching Moves

Dec 11, 2015; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Zack Greinke puts on a baseball hat during a press conference at Chase Field . Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

This offseason saw a ton of players skipping town to make a little extra cash or have a bigger role. Every year, it seems that the players who chase the money often times do not live up to expectations.

This article will analyze the stock of the players that moved as a result of this years’ offseason pitching moves.

Next: Starting Pitching

Oct 23, 2015; Kansas City, MO, USA; Toronto Blue Jays starting pitcher David Price throws a pitch against the Kansas City Royals in the first inning in game six of the ALCS at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports /

Starting Pitching

Zack Greinke (ARI)-Stock Down

Greinke cashed in this offseason with a nice $200 million contract that will span over just six years. From a fantasy perspective, Chase Field is one of the most hitter-friendly parks in the league. Also, in the division, is multiple trips to Coors Field, which allows the most home runs on a year-year basis. Greinke gave up only 14 home runs last year and I wouldn’t be surprised if that number increases, due to ballpark factors.

David Price (BOS)-Stock Down

Price also cashed into a large deal in Boston. He instantly becomes Boston’s ace. Price did well last year in Toronto and has established himself as a top-tier pitcher. However, he has given up a pretty large sum of homers over the past few years. As a lefty, Price will have to reduce his fly ball outs tremendously because he will have the protect against Boston’s Green Monster.

Jordan Zimmermann (DET)-Stock Up

Zimmermann will become a big part of the Tigers rotation next season. The Tigers just added Justin Upton who will add to an offense that has a world of potential. Miguel Cabrera and J.D. Martinez were great last year and Upton will be the perfect complement to finally put this offense over the hump. The run support will benefit Zimmerman in the Wins category, which will be good for his fantasy stock.

Next: Relief Pitching

Sep 25, 2015; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Cincinnati Reds relief pitcher Aroldis Chapman throws against the New York Mets in the ninth inning at Great American Ball Park. The Mets won 12-5. Mandatory Credit: David Kohl-USA TODAY Sports /

Relief Pitching

Aroldis Chapman (NYY)-Stock Down

One would think that moving from a weak team in Cincinnati to a contending club like the Yankees would help. Yankee Stadium is prone to giving up home runs and Aroldis’ 105 MPH fastball is gone if the hitter can somehow catch up to it. Aroldis may have more saves this year, but I wouldn’t be surprised if he gives up more runs.

Ken Giles (HOU)-Stock Up

Being traded from Philadelphia to Houston is about as good as it gets in terms of an upgrade. Not only do the Astros have elite hitters like Jose Altuve and Carlos Gomez, but they also have elite pitchers like Dallas Keuchel. Giles will have plenty of save opportunities next year and it definitely helps that he will be protected by an Astros defense that ranks top 10 in fewest errors and fielding percentage. Expect a career year.

Drew Storen (TOR)-Stock Up

Toronto is an above average team in the field, but they do have a very strong bat that led them to a 93-69 record last season. The Jays averaged an exceptional 5.5 runs per game last year, which will be more than enough for Drew Storen and the rest of the Jays staff. He should fit perfectly in the Jays’ closer spot and have a pretty formidable season.

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