Darren Oliver will be back with the Rangers in 2011. The left-hander's $3.25MM option vested when he pitched a scoreless inning and struck a batter out in last night's game. That kind of performance has been the norm for Oliver, who turns 40 next month. He has a 2.50 ERA on the season with 9.8 K/9 and 2.2 BB/9. As a result, the Rangers probably would have picked the option up even if it hadn't vested.
Oliver, who is now in his 17th big league season, began his MLB career with the Rangers in 1993 on a team that included current team president Nolan Ryan. Like Ryan, Oliver is enjoying success late into his career. The 2010 season has arguably been his best since moving to the 'pen full-time in 2004.
3.25 mill for a quality left handed arm? not bad at all…
I’d say Oliver’s had a pretty good run. Son of a big leaguer (who also was once a Ryan teammate). Appeared in 17 MLB seasons with 8 different clubs (incl 3 stints in Arlington), despite being released by 5 different organizations. An estimated $40M in career earnings to date. Not too shabby for a career ERA of 4.68 and career WHIP of 1.47.
It’s too bad he didn’t pitch like this with the Red Sox but it’s still great seeing him pitch well into his late 30’s. Sorta like a relief version of Jamie Moyer.
There have been other relievers who converted from starter and pitched into their late 30s like John Smoltz and Rick Honeycutt. I think Oliver isn’t showing signs of slowing down too much though. I’m very glad to have him back with the Rangers next season.
everytime i hear about this guy i say to myself, hes still around? i guess soft throwing lefties die hard