Toronto Blue Jays reportedly interested in Chris Tillman
By Paul Taylor
With the Toronto Blue Jays looking to add another starter to the rotation, MLB Network’s Jon Paul Morosio has indicated they are interested in Chris Tillman.
With spring training fast approaching, the Toronto Blue Jays would like to add another viable starter to the rotation. As things stand, Joe Biagini holds the role as the team’s fifth starter.
However, the preference would be for Biagini to return to the bullpen, especially now with Dominic Leone gone. The question is, who represents a decent and realistic option?
One potential answer is Chris Tillman, at least according to Jon Paul Morosio. The MLB Network Insider discussed the free agent on Sportsnet 590 The Fan:
"“I was told there has been some discussion this offseason between the Jays and Tillman. He’s still available and if you look back at his numbers, if he’s healthy, he’s going to be a very intriguing pitcher. You look at 2016, 3.77 ERA in 30 starts in the American League East. So, he checks that box of if that pitcher knows how to get it done in a very difficult offensive division with very small ballparks.”"
One of the keys to if the Blue Jays should step up their interest, relates to what version of Tillman they would be getting? Between 2012 and 2016 he was a top-level pitcher for the Orioles, who had a 3.81 ERA and a 65-33 record in 143 starts.
However, the 2013 All-Star came off the rails big time last year, going 1-7 in 24 appearances (including 19 starts) and recorded career-worsts in ERA (7.84) and WHIP (1.892). He was undoubtedly affecting by spending the first month of the season on the disabled list with a shoulder injury and was never able to get back into a groove.
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The hope is the offseason has helped Tillman fully recover. In truth though, he is definitely worth the gamble, especially considering his previous success, both generally and in the AL East specifically.
There has also been speculation the 29-year-old is willing to accept a one-year deal, Understandably, this makes him an even more attractive proposition to teams around the league.
In terms of Tillman’s arsenal, he has four pitches which he uses. Of these, his main weapons are his fourseam fastball and cutter.
In this respect, perhaps the biggest concern is that the 2006 second round draft pick’s fastball was down in 2017, to an average of 91 mph. Again though, this was likely compromised by his shoulder injury.
Overall, the Toronto Blue Jays really do have little to lose and everything to gain, by offering Tillman a contract. If he reverts to form, their rotation will have the ability to be one of the very best in the Majors.
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What’s your take on Tillman? Do you believe he is a viable option for the Toronto Blue Jays? Or is there anyone else you would like to (realistically) see them go for? If they are unable to add another starter, what kind of year are you predicting for the rotation? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.