Close, but no cigar
First, I wanted to touch on some intriguing names that didn’t quite crack the top three on our list but still could make an impact for a team this season.
The New York Yankees left a few intriguing options to the free agent market. Chad Green is currently recovering from Tommy John surgery and will not turn in a full 2023 season, but he has been an elite arm in the Bronx bullpen for years. Zack Britton hasn’t pitched to full potential in recent years and has missed some time, but may be worth a flier.
Corey Knebel turned a 3.43 ERA in 44.2 innings last year. The Steamer projections expect some regression, but certainly still a serviceable arm. Another Phillie, Brad Hand, turned in really solid numbers in 40+ innings last year as well to the tune of a 2.80 ERA. He would have cracked this list if his advanced metrics supported his ERA.
Trevor Rosenthal is attempting to make a comeback after not pitching since 2020, but claims he is fully healthy and could be a legitimate buy-low candidate. Lastly, Archie Bradley still needs a home (and I am sure he doesn’t intend to jump over any dugout fences this year).
There are still plenty of options to left to fill gaps in your bullpen. None of these players figure to make or break a staff, but can provide quality innings.