Blue Jays: Ken Giles and the Blue Jays avoid arbitration

Ken Giles and Blue Jays reach a deal before the arbitration deadline today at 1:00 pm EST

Ken Giles and the Blue Jays reach an agreement for one year at $9.6 million.

Giles was heading into his last arbitration year at the age of 29 and was expected to receive a contract in the neighbourhood of $8.4 million according to MLB Trade Rumors. He projected to be one of the top earners in arbitration for a relief arm.

Giles had more than earned his ability to draw a salary of at least $8.4 million as per the projection. Obviously, the Blue Jays agree with me. He put up a 1.87 ERA, 14.09 K/9, 2.89 BB/9, 2.27 FIP, and a 2.4 bWAR in 2019 in his age 28 season. His K/9 ranked 7th among pitchers with at least 40 innings pitched.

It is difficult to evaluate pitchers, especially relief pitchers and their limited innings, based on WAR. But if the average free agent value of $8-9 million per 1 WAR is any indication, getting Giles under raps for $9.6 million is a steal. Yes…I understand this isn’t the free agent market and the arb system is designed to suppress salaries, but it is definitely a good value.

I am happy they avoided the arbitration process, as it can leave sour feelings on occasion, as some of us remember with Marcus Stroman in 2018 who actually attended his arbitration hearing, which is not the norm. He felt that the Blue Jays attacked his character and abilities. In my opinion, the arbitration process is just business to be forgotten about soon afterward and normally blown out of proportion to make a good story.

All in all, they Blue Jays have made a good deal in giving Giles a $3.3 million boost on his last years salary and signed one of the best relievers/closers in the game. He has become a leader on this team and the bullpen in  just one year. He wants to be a Blue Jay and I am happy they came to terms.