MLB Free Agency: The top 30 free agents for 2018-2019

By David Hill | Nov 5, 2018

WASHINGTON, DC - SEPTEMBER 26: Washington Nationals right fielder Bryce Harper (34) waves to the fans at Nationals Park after the game against the Miami Marlins was called due to rain. The players returned to the field to throw t-shirts and collectables after the final home game of the 2018 season. (Photo by Jonathan Newton / The Washington Post via Getty Images) /

4 of 31

(Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) /

28. Cody Allen

Although he was not quite an All Star, Cody Allen had still become a solid enough closer with the Cleveland Indians. Paired with Andrew Miller, he gave Cleveland a solid 1-2 punch in the final two innings.

That is, he provided a solid option as a closer until last season. While he notched 27 saves, Allen was hardly a given in the ninth inning. He finished the year with a 4.70 ERA, the worst of his major league career. His 1.358 WHiP was his worst since his rookie campaign, and was fueled by a 4.4 BB/9 and a 1.5 HR/9 rate.

There were a few positives to Allen’s 2018 campaign. He remained healthy, making 70 appearances, the sixth consecutive season that he had at least 67 games pitched. Allen also struck out 80 batters in his 67 innings, showing that he could still dial the fastball up.

Yet, Allen may well be a risky choice for a team looking for a closer. His strikeout rate dropped for the fourth consecutive year, and his fastball velocity has decreased by nearly two MPH since 2015. That fastball/curveball mix has not been as effective, and Allen does have a good amount of mileage on him.

The Proven Closer is usually a hot commodity in MLB free agency. However, teams may want to think twice before committing to Cody Allen.

Home/MLB Rumors