Free agent right-hander Javier Vazquez won’t pitch in the Major Leagues this coming season, Ruben Rodriguez of El Nuevo Día reports (on Twitter). Vazquez, who will also miss the upcoming World Baseball Classic, has been dealing with an injured right knee. James Wagner of the Washington Post confirms that Vazquez won't pitch at the MLB Level in 2013, suggesting he could soon retire instead (Twitter links).
Vazquez drew interest from many teams this winter, including the Nationals, Red Sox, Rays, Royals, Mets, White Sox and Phillies. The 36-year-old ACES client last pitched at the MLB level with the 2011 Marlins, when he posted a 3.69 ERA with 7.6 K/9 and 2.3 BB/9 in 192 2/3 innings. He had his right meniscus repaired by one of the Marlins’ team doctors approximately one month ago.
With Vazquez unavailable, teams interested in adding starters could turn to free agents such as Carlos Zambrano, Chien-Ming Wang and Roy Oswalt. Kyle Lohse, the top free agent available, would require the forfeiture of a draft pick. The trade market could include pitchers such as Chris Capuano, Aaron Harang, Luke Hochevar and Zach Britton.
