After sitting out the 2017 campaign, Jake Peavy, the former ace of the San Diego Padres, is looking to make a comeback.
After his struggles in 2016, it was easy to understand why Jake Peavy was unable to find employment last year. The former San Diego Padres ace struggled with the San Francisco Giants, posting a 5-9 record with a 5.54 ERA and a 1.433 WHiP. He was eventually banished to the bullpen over the final few weeks of the season.
At 35 years old after the 2016 campaign, and coming off his worst year in the majors, it was easy to understand why Peavy did not generate much interest as a free agent. As it turns out, he elected to take the 2017 season off, focusing on personal matters. He lost millions in a Ponzi scheme, and was divorced last year. Understandably, baseball took a back seat.
However, with his life back on track, Peavy can focus on the game he loves. As such, he has announced his desire to return to the game, as he is seeking to make a comeback in 2018, when he would spend most of the year at 37 years old.
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It is possible that the year off will help Peavy as he seeks to return to the mound. After all, he had only made 30 or more appearances in a season four times from 2007 through 2016, and reached the 200 inning plateau thrice. By missing 2017, his arm may actually be healthy.
Likewise, it is possible that Peavy will be better equipped to succeed. After the turmoil that he had gone through during the 2016 offseason and into 2017, Peavy needed a mental break. With a clearer mindset, and those distractions behind him, Peavy may be ready to return to the majors and succeed once again.
Given his age, it is unlikely that Peavy will discover the Fountain of Youth and return to his dominant ways. However, on a minor league contract with an invitation to Spring Training, Peavy could prove to be a bargain. For teams looking for a back of the rotation starter with upside, Peavy could be the answer.
Former San Diego Padres ace Jake Peavy is trying to make a comeback. If his arm is healthy, he may well succeed.