Guardians’ Free Agency Hopes Fade Amidst Rising Pitching Prices
The Cleveland Guardians’ potential additions to their pitching staff via free agency are looking less likely as early signings raise concerns about affordability.
Earlier this week, pitcher Frankie Montas inked a two-year, $34 million deal with the New York Mets, with an option for a third year. While fans are happy for Montas, his 4.71 FIP from last season raises eyebrows regarding the hefty price tag. "Paying $17 million a year for him seems insane to me ($6 million more in average annual value than predicted by MLB Trade Rumors) and doesn’t bode well for starting pitcher prices this offseason," remarked one observer.
The news that Matthew Boyd, another Cleveland target, signed a two-year, $29 million contract with the Chicago Cubs was particularly disheartening for Guardians fans. Many held out hope that Boyd, who thrived in Cleveland last season, would remain a Guardian.
“The fact that we know the team liked him and we know he fit very well here makes this a tough pill to swallow for me," one fan commented. "I think it indicates that the Guardians have at most $20 million to spend this offseason due to the Dolans being afraid to put a little more money on the table to try to increase the odds of a team that made the ALCS in 2024 making a deeper run in 2025. But, I guess we will see.”
While the initial free agency news has been disappointing, some fans remain optimistic. "Hey, Boyd pitched kind of like an older Justin Steele so maybe this is just setting up Cleveland getting Steele in a trade! Turn on the delusion filters, everyone!" one commented hopefully.
As the offseason progresses, fans will be keeping a close eye on the Guardians’ moves. Will they be able to bolster their pitching staff despite the rising costs or will they have to explore other avenues to compete? Only time will tell.
