This offseason, top contending teams are all on the hunt for starting pitching. The Boston Red Sox are looking to strengthen their rotation by adding one or two arms, while the New York Mets face the challenge of replacing several key starters leaving the Big Apple.
Meanwhile, the Toronto Blue Jays, who traded away a pitcher last season, aim to reload for 2025.
However, the Los Angeles Angels have made the first move, landing a significant pitching addition that was on many contenders’ wish lists. According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, Yusei Kikuchi has signed a three-year, $63 million deal with the Angels, becoming the first high-profile free agent to sign this winter.
Kikuchi, now joining his third team in a year, started 2024 with the Blue Jays before being traded to the Houston Astros. He was linked to several teams, including the Red Sox, Mets, and Blue Jays, among others. Still, with a deep pool of pitching talent available, these teams have plenty of alternatives to explore.
The terms of Kikuchi’s contract also shed light on the starting pitching market. At $21 million per year, his deal sets a benchmark, suggesting that All-Star-level pitchers could command annual salaries exceeding $30 million. It’s likely we’ll see multiple pitchers secure contracts at or above that range this offseason.
Be the first to comment