Texas Rangers Free Agent Targets: Which starting pitcher will they sign?
By Tim Boyle
Lance Lynn
Free agent Lance Lynn bounced back well in 2017 after missing all of 2016 due to injury. Even with an ERA higher than what he posted in 2014 and 2015, Lynn still pitched well.
Most importantly, he was healthy and able to make a strong case in free agency.
If Lynn doesn’t return to the St. Louis Cardinals next year, his six seasons there should be considered a success. Lynn managed to go 72-47 while posting a 3.38 ERA.
Lynn’s consistency is shown in the fact that he has never finished a season with a losing record. During his first full season as a starter in 2012, Lynn managed to win a career-best 18 games and earn his way to the All-Star Game.
Lynn is a great fit for the Texas Rangers. He may walk batters a little too frequently and give up a few too many hits, but he keeps runs from scoring. The greatest bonus of all with signing him is that he won’t cost nearly as much as Darvish.
There is plenty of competition for Lynn’s services. He’s the type of pitcher I could see joining a contender with an already deep rotation
Also, this is the same burly starter I envision inking a deal with a team like the Minnesota Twins, to help get them over the hump.
One quality about Lynn every team should look at is how well he kept the ball in the yard up until 2017. This past season was the first to include more than a home run per nine frames.
While this should scare a few organizations off, those with a little more faith can expect him to again give up 13-14 a home runs per year. If he’s in Texas, though, maybe 20 is acceptable.
Lynn, who turns 31 in May, should get a good deal regardless. The Texas Rangers will need to act fast if they believe he’s the solution.