2012 MLB Free Agents: Many Teams Interested in Jonathan Broxton
By Editorial Staff
With several top name closers remaining on the free agent market, many teams have shown a high amount of interest in one of the most intriguing options out there. According to Jon Heyman of SI.com via Twitter, “more than 10 teams have shown interest and requested medicals” on Dodgers free agent finisher Jonathan Broxton.
Entering the offseason, many knew the market for closers would be a loaded one. Top names such as Jonathan Papelbon, Heath Bell, Ryan Madson and Francisco Rodriguez hit the open market. Teams have also explored cheaper alternatives through trade, such as Colorado’s Huston Street.
Still, even with all of the talent listed above, many teams are checking in on Broxton, the once-dominant closer of the Dodgers. Only 27, Broxton’s performance has steadily deteriorated over his past two seasons in LA.
In 2009, Broxton was one of the game’s best closers. At 25 years of age, Broxton maintained an ERA and WHIP of 2.61 and 0.961 over his 76 innings pitched, compiling 36 saves for the Dodgers. It appeared LA had found their finisher of the future.
Unfortunately for Broxton and the Dodgers, the right-hander hasn’t continued to experience success. In 2010, Broxton struggled through his 62 1/3 innings, finishing the year with an ERA of 4.04 and a 1.476 WHIP. Broxton’s continued striking out more than a batter an inning but his BB/9 rate rose to 4.0.
Last season, Broxton was limited to 12 2/3 innings, over which he surrendered 15 hits and eight earned runs. LA sent him to the DL in May, and Broxton was eventually shut down for the season in September. The big righty underwent minor elbow surgery and, according to ESPN.com’s Jerry Crasnick, Broxton plans to begin a throwing routine in the next week or so.
The Blue Jays are the one known team to have shown interest in Broxton. CBSSports.com speculates that the Twins, Reds, Rangers, Mets, Orioles, Angels and Marlins could all also be fits for Broxton’s services.
You can check out all of the available free agents by position below.