The Chicago White Sox signed reliever Kelvin Herrera to a two-year deal with an option for a third earlier today. The deal is worth $18 million.
Last year with the Kansas City Royals and the Washington Nationals, he posted a 2.44 ERA with 17 saves. Herrera was traded to the Nationals early on in the 2018 season but struggled before ending the season on the DL. With Washington, Herrara recorded three saves and had a 4.34 ERA. He suffered a Lisfranc ligament tear in his left foot. The injury and being relegated to eighth inning instead of the closer role led to Herrera’s late-season struggles.
The White Sox are hoping Herrera can return to his former self where he was a crucial part of the Royals reaching the World Series in back to back seasons. From 2014 to 2016, he averaged a 2.29 ERA and 69 strikeouts. From 2016 to 2018, he became the teams closer and averaged 17 saves. Herrera will team up with recent trade acquisition Alex Colomé to form a dominant one-two punch. Herrera will be the setup man to Colomé, but will be able to save games when the latter cannot play.
Chicago has one of the best farm systems in baseball but is one to two years away from their top prospects being ready for the big leagues. Herrera is only 29 and if he can return to his former self, having him in the back of the bullpen will be crucial.
Feature Image From the Washington Post.
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