Portsiders:
When the Phillies faithful consider free-agent signings, they mostly focus on the positive aspects of the moundsmen, but general manager Matt Klentak must weigh negatives those locals may not be aware of. The GM considers the star’s age, injury history, location preferences and his organization’s finances.
Concerning Hyun-Jin Ryu, the left-hander is having an excellent campaign, and his numbers will excite many fan bases. However, Asian players usually prefer west coast teams, and he’s in his final prime year: ages 27 through 32. Plus he’s an injury risk.
While Cole Hamels tugs at our heartstrings, the aging veteran is in the uncharted waters where the other three Phillies aces finished their careers: a nostalgic brew. And he’ll probably seek a three-season deal and accept two summers at or slightly above his current $20 million salary.
Southpaws’ 2019 stats through Aug. 15:
- Bumgarner, 30: 26 Gms., 158 2/3 Inn., 8-7, a 3.63 ERA and a 1.10 WHIP.
- Hamels, 35.5: 20 Gms., 109 2/3 Inn., 6-4, a 3.69 ERA and a 1.32 WHIP.
- Keuchel, 31.5: 11 Gms., 65 2/3 Inn., 3-5, a 4.39 ERA and a 1.34 WHIP.
- Ryu, 32.5: 22 Gms., 142 2/3 Inn., 12-2, a 1.45 ERA and a 0.93 WHIP.
Pitching for a new contract, Madison Bumgarner has a 2.78 ERA from June 25’s ballgame. But only his first two campaigns will be during his prime, and two or three will be after that: half or most of his agreement. Overall, he is putting up three-slot-hurler stats. .
As for Keuchel, he also is a mid-rotation piece, but he won’t have a QO (qualifying offer) to complicate his offseason status. However, he’s in his final prime 162, and any pact will be for the campaigns beyond that. Plus he will probably receive a deal for 3-4 seasons with his best years behind him.