Blue Jays: Bargains to be had at the back end of the rotation

Maybe Worth A Shot?

John Lackey

I don’t think this one has much of a chance of happening, but Lackey does have experience in the AL East, and has been a member of a playoff team with the Cubs the last few years. He finished last season earning 1.1 WAR with a record of 11-11 and an ERA of 4.59 in 30 starts, and 31 appearances. And also keep in mind that this is the 5th spot in the rotation we’re talking about here.

That said, he’s 39 now and it’s hard to predict what he’s got left in the tank. On the right kind of bargain deal he could be worth a flyer to fill out the rotation, and there’s a good chance he’ll be able to eat some innings if nothing else. That in itself would have value for the Blue Jays, especially if Aaron Sanchez can’t stay healthy, or if one of the other projected starters faces injury troubles.

Brett Anderson

The southpaw saw time in a Blue Jays uniform late last season, and mostly impressed in his short tenure. He made seven starts for the Jays and the numbers look worse than his performance actually was, as he finished with a 5.13 ERA in 33.1 innings pitched. For the most part, he looked like an experienced veteran that is more than capable of filling out an MLB rotation, with the key of course being that he was healthy.

It shouldn’t surprise us if the Blue Jays renew interest in the soon to be 30 year old, as the stretch run of last season basically served as an audition for the injury prone former 2nd round pick. It would appear they have their sights set a little higher on possible rotation upgrades, but Anderson could be a cheap depth option that could turn out to be a bargain if he can stay healthy.