Colorado Rockies: good riddance to two sub-par relievers
The Colorado Rockies cut ties with two relievers they hoped would anchor their bullpen.
When the Colorado Rockies opened up the checkbook during the offseason entering the 2018 season they hoped to solidify their bullpen. Two years later they are jettisoning two relievers who would have become free agents after this season had their options not vested.
Both Jake McGee and Bryan Shaw were brought in on matching 3 year/$27M deals and each will leave being owed money to no longer pitch in the Mile High City. Two more guys chewed up and spit out by the thin air of Denver.
McGee began his career with the Tampa Bay Rays and rose to notoriety during the 2014 season when he compiled a 5-2 record and 19 saves while having a 1.89 earned run average.
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The Rays traded him to the Rockies following the next season and while his ERA ballooned, he was able to save 15 games.
After a bit of a decline in 2016, the team decided to bring him back via free agency. The fine-shine had worn off and his numbers were dismal. The Rockies decided to cut their losses and kick McGee to the curb, where he’ll leave with a 4-11 record and 4.78 ERA during his time with the team.
He is owed a prorated $9.5M salary for this year and a $2M option for next year, though the Rockies should be glad to see him gone.
The Colorado Rockies have placed reliever Bryan Shaw on waivers, sources tell ESPN.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) July 17, 2020
He has a vesting option in his contracts for $9 million in 2021 based on appearances. If he clears waivers, a team can pick him up for the prorated minimum but vesting option would still apply.
McGee will have company on the waiver wire as the Rockies also parted ways with reliever Bryan Shaw.
Thrice in his seven year career prior to joining the Rockies Shaw led the league in appearances. In his time with the Cleveland Indians he was one of the leagues top set-up men. His flower wilted in the thin air of Colorado, however.
In just two seasons he gave up 21 home runs, each year setting a new career high for long balls allowed. He’ll hit free agency after posting a 5.61 ERA during his stint with the Rockies.
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These once reliable arms have proven they can’t handle pitching in Colorado so this was the best move for the team to make. Send these guys packing and give those innings to someone else. The Colorado Rockies are making the right move by eating a few dollars and investing in the future.