4 Teams Crazy Enough to Take a Chance on Matt Harvey
By Parker White
The Los Angeles Angels were hoping that Matt Harvey was going to expand on the good work he showed as a member of the Cincinnati Reds last year, leading to them signing him to a one-year, $11 million deal.
Well, their expectation that Harvey could at least pitch to a mid-rotation starter has failed miserably. In 12 starts he owns a 7.09 ERA to go along with a 5.9 K/9 and 4.4 BB/9, leading to the club designating him for assignment.
It's hard to imagine many teams lining up to bring aboard the former All-Star, but here are four teams crazy enough to take a chance on Matt Harvey.
4. Toronto Blue Jays
The Toronto Blue Jays aren't close to AL East contention, but they have some young players on their way up. With the likes of Marcus Stroman likely out the door, Toronto needs someone who can at least take his spot and hopefully eat innings. Harvey may not be the guy to do that, but he might find his way in a new country and be a sneaky arm to keep around for next year.
3. Kansas City Royals
The Kansas City Royals have one of the worst pitching staffs in the game, so adding and taking a chance on Matt Harvey isn't the worst thing in the world. When healthy (which has been the problem), Harvey has shown to be a quality starter. Get this guy some Midwestern barbecue and see what you can get from the former New York Mets ace.
2. Baltimore Orioles
The Royals may possess one of the worst pitching staffs in the game, but the Baltimore Orioles have by far the worst, especially when you look at their starting rotation. So, why not see what Harvey can do for you? It wouldn't set them back and you might get lucky, hopefully.
1. Pittsburgh Pirates
If anyone can get the best out of Matt Harvey it's Pittsburgh Pirates pitching coach Ray Searage. He's revamped the careers of A.J. Burnett and Francisco Liriano to name a few. Why not see what he can do with an arm talent like Harvey? He may not be worth saving at this point, but if the Pirates can get him for a small price, you might as well give Searage a chance to turn Harvey's career around.