New York Yankees: Attractive short-term free agent pitchers

Jason Vargas

Vargas didn’t look like a worthless 34-year-old pitcher in 2017. In fact, he arguably became Kansas City’s ace on a staff that featured few promotable arms.

The southpaw had an outstanding first half of the season, earning his first ever All-Star bid this season. He owned a 2.62 ERA while compiling 12 wins and 78 strikeouts in just 17 starts. By the end of the season, his stats didn’t look so glossy, but he still led the Royals in most of the pitching categories.

Now, after proving he can remain healthy for an entire season, the lefty has an opportunity to help teams that will be in playoff contention.

Vargas is similar to Lackey – and most other older pitchers – because he doesn’t possess overpowering stuff. Yet, he somehow found a way to lead the league in wins.

His most devious pitch – the one he relied on most – is his sinker. He has relied less on a four-seam fastball and more on his off-speed stuff. Nearly 42 percent of his pitches were sinkers, per FanGraphs, while more than 34 percent of his pitches were changeups.

For a guy that averages about 85 MPH on his fastball, it makes sense to stick with the slower, more confounding, repertoire. Like Lackey, he would be a great replacement for Sabathia.

The only problem with Vargas is that he doesn’t boast much playoff experience, which is what the New York Yankees may be looking for.

Nevertheless, he offers an extra arm for a team that needs plenty of them for the upcoming season.