Introduction

As Major League Baseball's offseason kicks off, teams are gearing up to strengthen their starting rotations. With a plethora of free-agent pitchers available, this year’s market offers exciting options, including several potential aces ready to join new rosters. Let’s explore the top 30 pitchers available this winter and what teams might expect from them.

Key Free Agents

Among the notable names is Tatsuya Imai, the standout Japanese ace, whose potential signing is eagerly anticipated. However, let’s delve into the diverse range of other pitchers available who could impact teams significantly.

Foster Griffin (LHP, 30 years old, Yomiuri Giants)

Griffin posted a commendable 2.50 ERA over 371.1 innings after relocating to Japan. A strong candidate for a No. 4 starter spot, he is projected to sign a one-year deal worth $6 million with the Houston Astros.

Cody Ponce (RHP, 31 years old, Hanwha Eagles)

Ponce turned his career around in South Korea with an impressive 1.89 ERA. Expected to attract interest, he is pegged for a one-year, $5 million contract with the San Diego Padres.

Kona Takahashi (RHP, 28 years old, Seibu Lions)

Takahashi is known for his consistency over 11 seasons with the Seibu Lions, boasting a 2.67 ERA. He could sign for two years at $12 million with the Texas Rangers.

Nestor Cortes (LHP, 30 years old)

After a tough season marked by injury, Cortes could be looking at a one-year, $2 million deal with the Milwaukee Brewers, as he recovers from surgery.

Zach Eflin (RHP, 31 years old)

Despite a challenging year filled with injuries, Eflin is projected to secure a sizeable one-year deal of $10 million with the Baltimore Orioles due to his past performance.

Pitchers Facing Recovery

Several pitchers are coming back from injuries but still have the potential to make a competitive impact:

Jordan Montgomery (LHP, 32 years old)

After undergoing surgery, he is expected to sign a one-year contract with the Boston Red Sox, estimated at $6 million.

Max Scherzer (RHP, 41 years old)

Though Scherzer ended the season on a rocky note, he remains a sought-after veteran, likely to receive a one-year deal at $10 million from the Toronto Blue Jays.

Conclusion

This offseason is set to be competitive, with many teams looking to make significant upgrades to their pitching rotations. The market is rich with talent, and strategic moves will be crucial as franchises prepare for the upcoming season.