MLB Trade Rumors: Indians No Longer Interested in Ubaldo Jimenez; Yankees, Dodgers, Orioles Could Land Hurler
The Cleveland Indians' interest in retaining starting pitcher Ubaldo Jimenez has apparently subsided, leading to the possibility of their former ace playing for another ball club next season, a source close to the situation reported on Thursday.
Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports reported that the Tribe hasn't contacted Jimenez and his representative in weeks. Jimenez, who is considered one of the most coveted starting pitchers available on the market, turned down a qualifying offer from the Indians in November.
"For those wondering, one source says it has been "weeks" since the #Indians spoke with the agents for free-agent RHP Ubaldo Jimenez," Rosenthal Tweeted.
According to sources, several ball clubs have shown great interest in landing the service of the 30-year-old Jimenez. However, these teams are reportedly iffy on sacrificing a high draft pick in exchange for the hard-throwing veteran pitcher.
"Jimenez is widely considered one of the best starters left in free agency, but teams are hesitant to forfeit a high draft pick, and the slot money associated with it, in order to sign him," SB Nation reported.
There are reports that the Indians might be ready to kick off the season with a starting rotation that consists of Justin Masterson, Corey Kluber, Danny Salazar, and Zach McAllister. Young hurlers from the Tribe farm system could see an opportunity to have their debut start for the Tribe next season, SB Nation reported.
Jimenez, who posted a 13-9 record with a 3.30 ERA and 194 strikeouts in 182 and 2/3 innings pitched, is drawing interest from the New York Yankees, Los Angeles Dodgers, Toronto Blue Jays and Baltimore Orioles. After the All-Star break last season, Jimenez went 6-5 with a 1.82 ERA and 100 strikeouts over 84 innings and threw for an ERA of 1.09 in six September starts. However, as MASN Sports notes, his velocity has dipped in the last few seasons, which could be a cause for concern among interested teams.