Following months in free agency, Hunter Strickland has found a home with the Tampa Bay Rays on a minor league deal for the 2021 season. This comes just a couple weeks following Chris Archer’s signing with the Rays.
Hunter Strickland’s Past
Hunter Strickland, 32, has a been a part of two World Series winning teams, the Giants and Nationals. Strickland has also appeared in games on the Mariners and Mets. In five seasons with San Francisco, Strickland had a 2.91 ERA with 19 saves in 226 innings of work. Since then, however, Strickland has been more or less ineffective as with three different teams. Since 2019, he’s had a 5.86 ERA in 27 innings. The worst of these innings came last season when he lasted just 4 games (3 1/3 innings) with the Mets and posted a 8.10 ERA. Strickland’s most notable moment came as part of a brawl between the Giants and Nationals in 2017. This is where he intentionally drilled Bryce Harper with a fastball leading to fracas.
Contract Situation
The Rays signed Hunter Strickland to a minor league contract, meaning that he’s paid the league minimum. This also means that if they choose to, Strickland can start the year in the minors. This comes regardless of his minor league options, it is the team’s discretion.
His Fit With The Rays
Strickland certainly could be a valuable depth piece for the Tampa Bay Rays. He will likely begin the season in the minors, but if not, expect him in the backend of the Rays’ bullpen. On a minor league deal, this certainly is low-risk and potentially high-reward. Strickland can still throw 98 mph, so expect him to be part of the Rays bullpen at some point in 2021.
What’s Next for the Rays?
The Rays have been linked to several pitchers as of late, even after the signing of Chris Archer. These include James Paxton along with 40 year-old stalwart starter Rich Hill. However, rumors have persisted about a potential trade surrounding Gold Glove CF Kevin Kiermaier.