Cleveland Indians former closer Cody Allen attempting comeback

Former Cleveland Indians closer Cody Allen held a showcase on Friday as he is attempting to work his way back to the majors.

When last we saw former Cleveland Indians closer Cody Allen, he had signed a one year contract with the Los Angeles Angels. In theory, he would solidify the back of the Angels bullpen, a proven closer that could help lead Los Angeles back to the postseason. At least, that would be the case in a perfect world.

Instead, Allen imploded with the Angels. While he did manage to save all four chances he had, he quickly lost the closing role. Overall, in his 23 innings with the Angels, he posted a 6.26 ERA and a 1.913 WHiP. Although he managed to strike out 29 batters, he also issued 20 walks and allowed nine homers.

Understandably, Allen was let go by the Angels on June 18. He did manage to latch on with the Twins on the 24th, where he made 11 appearances in the minors, but was let go at the end of July. Likewise, it is understandable that there would currently be little interest in his services, given the way he performed in 2019.

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However, Allen is not going quietly into the night. On Friday, he held a showcase, which was attended by 19 different major league teams. During that bullpen, he reportedly hit 90 MPH with his fastball and 82 MPH with his curve, with his decreased velocity explained away by this being his first time throwing during the offseason.

There was a time when Allen was considered one of the more dependable closers in the game. Despite never being named an All Star, he was a key part of a staunch Indians bullpen, notching over 20 saves for five consecutive years. Then, his struggles in 2018 exploded last year, leaving Allen as just a shadow of his former self.

Even in this day and age of advanced statistics and playing matchups, the Proven Closer still has a draw. It is one of the last holdovers to the pre-Sabermetric days, the thought that there is a certain mindset required to be a successful closer. Allen, who had once been that, should find himself with a contract, even if it is a minor league deal with an invite to Spring Training.

For now, former Cleveland Indians closer Cody Allen has to work his way back to the majors. If he can regain his velocity, it would not be a surprise to see a team take a chance.