Here’s the latest on veteran closer Joakim Soria, one of the best relievers remaining on the free agent market, particularly with the Orioles closing in on re-signing Darren O’Day and with Ryan Madson having agreed to terms with the A’s.
- It’s likely Soria will get a three-year deal, Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports reports (Twitter links). He’ll also be looking for some other protection in his deal: some kind of no-trade clause and an incentives package. (Rosenthal says the incentives would be to “cover him if he is used as a starter,” but that seems likely to be a typo; presumably, the veteran reliever would be looking to add some salary upside if he is used as a closer.)
Earlier Updates
- Soria remains a potential fit for the Twins, Mike Berardino of the Pioneer Press writes. Soria’s agent, Oscar Suarez, says his client doesn’t mind pitching in a setup role rather than closing, but adds that he doesn’t want to sign with a team likely to trade him in July. “If he’s got to be an eighth-inning guy, he’s got no problem with that, as long as he’s paid accordingly,” Suarez says. “[H]e’d like to be in a situation where he doesn’t have to worry about being flipped on July 31 if the team falls out of it. He’s looking for a team that’s committed to him.”
- Of course, the Tigers actually did flip Soria last July, but they are open to re-signing him even after adding Francisco Rodriguez, Anthony Fenech of the Detroit Free Press writes. With K-Rod in the fold, Soria would serve in a setup role. The Tigers spoke to Soria before acquiring Rodriguez.
- Other teams recently connected to Soria include the Blue Jays and Royals, as well as the Rangers and Giants. At last check, Soria was reportedly looking for a three-year deal in the $27MM range.
If it was closer to 3/15-20, I’d say sign him if I was the Braves.
With Madson getting 3/22… After just one good year recently. With multiple injuries…. Not to mention Soria having overall better stats. I don’t see it falling to that level
I know, but I’m wishful thinking.
Interesting. I dont know how much more cash my jays have to spend, but I think he might be an interesting add seeing as how we dont have Lowe, or Hawkins anymore. Oh, and hendriks was traded as well. Definitely could use a bit of bullpen bolstering behind Osuna Sanchez and Cecil. Bounceback year from loup would be great too.
So Soria wants 3+ years guaranteed, more money if the gets used in a different role, and wants a guarantee he can’t be traded? That seems like a lot to ask for knowing Soria’s value.
Tigers should give him a 3 year deal worth 23 million and some nice incentives!
Tigers need to step up and offer a no trade deal with incentives.A base of $6-7MM with closing options and salary bump if made closer in 2017. Soria liked Detroit and Rodriquez is only signed thru 2016 and has a team option for 2017. If Rodriquez struggles they could switch roles.
Having a no trade clause seems important to him so a lower salary with incentives could get a deal done.