Ryan Madson had a great bounce-back season as a member of the Kansas City Royals bullpen in 2015. Now, the 35-year-old has reportedly cashed in on that success this offseason.
Continue for updates.
A’s Reportedly Secure Madson
Sunday, Dec. 6
ESPN’s Jerry Crasnick, citing a source, reported the Oakland Athletics have signed Madson to a three-year contract worth $22 million.
Madson‘s resurgence in 2015 was stunning, especially considering he hadn’t pitched in the big leagues since 2011 due to various arm problems following Tommy John surgery. He appeared in 68 games, covering 63.1 innings and had a 2.13 ERA with a 0.963 WHIP.
The arm problems do make Madson a potentially high-risk investment for whichever team lands him, but there’s also the potential for an impact reliever in a market that always covets those kinds of players.
Dodgers Reportedly Considered Madson
Saturday, Dec. 5
Crasnick first reported the Los Angeles Dodgers had turned their attention to Madson as a way of boosting their depleted bullpen corps.
The Dodgers are a team with many holes, despite their massive payroll, with the bullpen being a particular problem. Their relievers finished 19th in ERA and 20th in opponent batting average against in 2015, so finding a bridge from the starters to closer Kenley Jansen is a priority for Los Angeles’ front office.
There are other problems the Dodgers will have to address in some way this offseason. Zack Greinke is reportedly leaving to sign with National League West rival Arizona, according to Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports, making starting pitching another area to address.
Stats per ESPN.com.
Read more MLB news on BleacherReport.com