2032-03 - Talons Preview: Free Agent Signings

[jiminyhopkins]

In this, the first of 6 Season Preview articles, we will take a look at who the Talons picked up in free agency this past winter.

December 9th: RP Jason Olson, 3 years, $3 million. 100 mph relievers are always in demand, and the Talons took a flier on Olson. A rough go in Seattle last season no doubt lowered his asking price, but Olson does have a good fastball and slider, and does hold runners well. The club hopes that he can provide some good innings in a middle relief role, and possibly set up some games if necessary.

December 9th: 1B Edgardo Jaso, 1 year, $750k. Jaso, the former EBA superstar, is known for his power bat but not much else these days. Phoenix has commited to a first base platoon of Frank Bud and Al Gordon, and that means Jaso was assigned to AAA as insurance in case things don't work out.

December 16: 2B Orlando Medrano, 4 years, $21 million. Signed to an exceptionally team friendly deal that includes two team option years, Medrano will be the starting second baseman and leadoff hitter. The Talons hope he will provide excellent on-base skills and plus defense at the keystone. Medrano is well regarded in the clubhouse and a fan favorite.

January 27th: SP Josh Rosser, 2 years, $4 million. Seems like every year the Talons sign a low risk starting pitcher to see if he can shore up the back end of the rotation. Last season it was Cap Morgan, and he was relegated to the bullpen before too long. Will Rosser be any different? He throws three quality pitches and has good control, and was worth 2 Wars in both 2029 and 2030, so its worth a shot.

February 29th, RP Skip Glendenning, 1 year, 1.8 million. A Hall of Fame closer and popular with the fans, there is no doubt that Skip is a the very tail end of his career. But he put up decent numbers for San Antonio last season, and the Talons feel he can contribute in long relief. And, no matter what, it sure will be fun to have who is possibly the greatest closer of all time on this seaon's roster.

Minor League free agents: As is the case every year, filler players were signed to shore up the high minors. Can any of them contribute at the majoe league level? Who knows, but it is possible the likes of SP Julio Reyes, 2B Jesus Martinez, or even P Antonio Rivera could see time with the big club this season.

So, nothing too groundbreaking. Hopefully the team can finally finish above .500 and at least challenge for a wildcard slot this season.

GO Talons!