The New York Yankees were very quiet on the free agent market this offseason, as they were the only team to not sign a major league free agent.
However, according to Joel Sherman of the New York Post, the Bronx Bombers were very close on reaching an agreement with a major league free agent this winter.
Sherman reported that the Yankees and relief pitcher Tommy Hunter reached an agreement on a two-year deal which was believed to be worth between $11.5 million and $12 million, but the Bronx Bombers backed out at the last minute due to the fact that they weren’t happy with the results of Hunter’s physical. Hunter has underwent two core surgeries this offseason, with the second one being at the beginning of January, so it’s not very surprising that the Yankees had some questions about his health.
In his eight big league seasons, the 29-year-old has posted a 46-33 career record with a 4.31 ERA with the Texas Rangers, Baltimore Orioles and Chicago Cubs. After starting his career as a starting pitcher, Hunter was transitioned into a bullpen role with the Orioles, and was a key part of their bullpen during the 2013 and 2014 seasons.
It’s likely that General Manager Brian Cashman was looking to sign Hunter to add a veteran middle reliever to help bridge the gap to the Yankees “three-headed monster” at the back-end of the bullpen. With the uncertainty that surrounds the Yankees starting rotation, Hunter could have played a huge role for the Bronx Bombers if the two sides had come to an agreement.
As the deal between the two sides broke apart, Hunter agreed to terms on a one-year, $2 million dollar contract with the Cleveland Indians last week. Hunter had to settle for a lot less money, but the Indians were willing to take a chance on the veteran reliever in hopes he can help bolster their bullpen.
