The Diamondbacks should consider signing Brad Hand
The Arizona Diamondbacks should sign Former All-Star Closer, Brad Hand
We all know that the Arizona Diamondbacks are in desperate need of some bullpen improvements. Due to that, why not take a 1-year flier on former All-Star closer Brad Hand that is looking to rebuild his value after a very rough 2nd half last year. He signed a 1-year deal with the Washington Nationals with which he put up solid numbers. At the trade deadline, he was dealt to the Blue Jays where the wheels came off. In only 8.2 innings, he gave up 10 runs and 3 home runs.
They eventually released him to where he ended up with the Mets. He finished the season with a semi-well 13.2 innings. He gave up 7 runs but struck out 14 and limited hard hits. When all was said and done, he ended the 2021 season with a 6-7 record, 3.90 ERA, 106 ERA+ (100 is average), 4.58 FIP, 1.268 WHIP, 61 K’s, 26 BB’s, 21 saves, and 64.2 innings pitched across 68 games. Those would be easily the best numbers in the Diamondbacks bullpen.
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So, why is Brad Hand most likely going to settle for a 1-year deal? Well, the 31-year old didn’t have a dominant enough season to assuage concerns that perhaps he’s starting to go downhill. He’ll most likely take a 1-year deal that is loaded with incentives in order to set himself up for a multi-year contract next year. The Diamondbacks should be the team to offer him that deal.
He’s a proven closer with an electric slider and pitching coach Brent Strom could work wonders with him. Plus, he would be great trade bait come to the deadline to further continue stocking our minor league system as the team prepares for a 2023 contention window. That would allow Hand to pitch in big games down the stretch and further increase his chances for a long-term deal. It’s truly a win-win.
dark. Next. Team should sign this player right now!
I could see a 1-year 5 million dollar deal with 5 million in incentives for saves, games finished, innings, and the likes being included. This would allow Hand the chance to rebuild his value and be the top relief pitcher on his team. I guess we’ll just have to see what happens.
As always,
May the Force be with you…