5 worst MLB contracts heading into 2022
By David Hill
4. Eric Hosmer
It was a surprise when the San Diego Padres signed Eric Hosmer. It was even more of a surprise when they handed him an eight year deal worth $144 million to leave the Royals. However, as the Padres were looking to re-establish themselves as MLB contenders, signing Hosmer was the first step to proving that they were serious about returning to the postseason.
Four years later, the Padres are doing everything they can to move on. They had reportedly been willing to add a top prospect along with Homser at the trade deadline to get rid of his contract, but were unable to. Those talks may start up again once the lockout ends.
In theory, another four years at $60 million is not terrible. The problem is that Hosmer was a slightly above average bat who was best known for his Gold Glove defense at first when he was brought to San Diego. Since that time, he has posted a 102 OPS+ with 61 homers and 94 doubles in 2065 plate appearances while costing the Padres five runs at first. It is easy to see why another MLB team has not been willing to take him on thus far.
3. Madison Bumgarner
As surprising as Hosmer’s agreeing with the Padres had been, Madison Bumgarner inking a five year deal with the Arizona Diamondbacks was a bigger shock. The idea that Bumgarner would wear a uniform other than the Giants seemed to be an impossibility.
Chances are, the Diamondbacks wish he had stayed in San Francisco. While he did throw a seven inning no hitter, most of his time in Arizona has been notable for its mediocrity. He has posted a 5.07 ERA and a 1.239 WHiP in his 188 innings, striking out 154 batters while issuing 52 walks and allowing 37 homers. That is a far cry from his days with the Giants.
Yes, Bumgarner is a great postseason pitcher. And yes, he can serve as a mentor for the Diamondbacks’ young arms. However, considering the strength of the NL West, it is unlikely that Arizona will be in the postseason in any of his remaining three years. At a total of $60 million, that is money down the drain.