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As we reported early on in the off-season, former Red Sox closer
Craig Kimbrel was seeking a six-year deal. Now, new reports confirm that that contract duration is correct—
and the 30-year-old reliever is looking for compensation in the $100 million range. Despite Kimbrel's undoubtedly impressive career credentials (1.91 ERA, 333 saves), his post-season shakiness in 2018 raised questions about his long-term effectiveness. While "pitch-tipping" was cited at one point as the cause of his erratic playoff performance—even
after this was floated as the explanation, he continued to deliver "cardiac" saves for the eventual World Series Champion Red Sox.
Dave Dombrowski has all but said Kimbrel will not return to Boston—and they may be focusing on the likes of
David Robertson and
Adam Ottavino. It's hard to imagine that
any team would shell out the kind of deal Kimbrel is seeking—but the Philadelphia Phillies are the current favorites to land him.
Stay tuned!
