While different teams have different approaches going into the offseason, one thing remains a common pain for most of them. That is their outfield depth. And Nick Pivetta is what everybody has in their minds, at least the Cincinnati Reds and Toronto Blue Jays.
At 31 years old and having recently rejected a qualifying offer from Boston, Pivetta’s situation is complicated. Any team going for him has to compensate with their draft pick. And as the Reds have historically valued their draft capital, it becomes one step more complicated. Part of the intrigue surrounding the Reds’ pursuit of Pivetta comes from their already well-stocked starting rotation.
With young pitchers like Hunter Greene, Nick Lodolo, and Andrew Abbott leading a promising group, targeting Pivetta could seem counterintuitive. However, one plausible explanation for this interest could be that the Reds are preparing for a trade involving one of their current starters. Should the club move a young arm to address that issue, securing Pivetta could still be a strategic move.
Excerpt: “The uber-talented Nick Pivetta has been connected to the #Reds, Jays and others, but that qualifying offer could complicate things.” https://t.co/nDH0oIL0i3
— Gingersaurus Rex (@HeyGingersaurus) December 27, 2024
Conversely, the Toronto Blue Jays’ situation is a more straightforward path for Pivetta. Their existing pitching needs and willingness to absorb the draft-pick loss. With a recent career-high strikeout rate and proven durability, Pivetta would provide the Blue Jays with a versatile option.
Free Agency Is Getting More And More Complicated For Nick Pivetta
The Boston Red Sox passed on Nick Pivetta’s $21 million contract option in light of their acquisition of ace pitcher Walker Buehler. For many fans, this choice feels like an unspoken injustice. The reason is that Pivetta is an integral part of the team despite his ups and downs on the mound. With a record of 37-41 and a 4.29 ERA.
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Last season, Nick Pivetta had a 10.6 K/9 with the Red Sox, and has maintained a 10.0 K/9 over his entire career.
— MetsMuse (@MetsMuse) December 11, 2024
Pivetta is known for having eletric stuff and would be a very fun addition to the rotation. pic.twitter.com/x1sYtaxPlJ
As the dust settles, MLB analyst Robbie Hyde has thrown some potential landing spots into the mix for Pivetta. According to him, the Los Angeles Angels are also exploring options for the star pitcher. Pivetta, often viewed as an underrated talent, has consistently ranked among the top 25 percent of pitchers for innings pitched.
While the deal could ultimately work out in Pivetta’s favor, teams must calculate all ifs and buts involved in the discussion. For now, the Pivetta pursuit has teams looking at what best they can sacrifice for him. And if they are considering a longer plan, it’s better they make the most suited exit for an alternative.
Also Read: REPORT: MLB Insider Pours Cold Water On The New York Yankees Re-Signing $9 Million Slugger
