The San Francisco Giants and Toronto Blue Jays find themselves in a challenging position as they seek to bolster their starting rotations. The recent signing of Corbin Burnes by the Arizona Diamondbacks has further depleted the pool of available top-tier starting pitchers, leaving both teams scrambling for viable alternatives. While the loss of Burnes is undoubtedly a setback, the free-agent market still offers some intriguing options for the Giants and Blue Jays. Three pitchers, in particular, stand out as potential targets: Jack Flaherty, José Quintana, and Nick Pivetta. Each brings a unique skillset and experience level to the table, offering the potential to solidify the rotations of either team.
Jack Flaherty, fresh off a resurgent 2024 season split between the Detroit Tigers and Los Angeles Dodgers, has emerged as the most coveted remaining free-agent starting pitcher following Burnes’ departure from the market. His 3.17 ERA over 28 starts demonstrated a remarkable bounce-back from a disappointing 2023 campaign. Flaherty’s ability to maintain a high strikeout rate while curtailing walks makes him an attractive option for teams seeking a reliable and effective arm. Projected to command a three-year, $63 million contract, Flaherty represents a significant investment but one that could pay dividends for a team in need of a front-of-the-rotation presence. He offers a blend of experience and proven performance, making him a valuable asset for any contending team.
José Quintana, a seasoned veteran, continues to defy age and prove his worth as a durable and dependable starter. His 31 starts for the New York Mets in 2024 showcased his consistent ability to shoulder a heavy workload, a trait he has exhibited throughout his career. While Quintana’s strikeout numbers have dipped from his earlier years, he has adapted his approach by focusing on inducing weak contact and efficiently navigating through opposing lineups. This adaptability and veteran savvy make him a valuable addition to any rotation, providing stability and consistency. Projected to sign a more modest two-year, $16 million deal, Quintana offers a cost-effective solution for teams seeking a reliable innings-eater.
Nick Pivetta, after re-establishing himself in the Boston Red Sox rotation in 2024, presents another intriguing option for the Giants and Blue Jays. Despite a 4.14 ERA in 26 starts, Pivetta’s impressive 4.8:1 strikeout-to-walk ratio highlights his ability to miss bats and limit free passes. While he may not possess the ace-like qualities of Burnes, Pivetta has the potential to solidify the middle to back end of a rotation, providing valuable innings and contributing to the team’s overall success. His projected four-year, $60 million contract suggests a belief in his continued development and ability to contribute consistently at the major league level.
The Giants and Blue Jays face a critical decision as they weigh their options in the starting pitching market. Flaherty, Quintana, and Pivetta represent three distinct profiles, each offering a unique set of skills and potential contributions. Flaherty offers the highest upside, with the potential to become a true front-of-the-rotation starter. Quintana provides a reliable veteran presence, capable of eating innings and providing stability. Pivetta represents a mid-rotation option with the potential for further growth and development. The ultimate decision will depend on each team’s specific needs, financial constraints, and long-term vision.
Beyond these three primary targets, the Giants and Blue Jays may also explore alternative avenues to strengthen their rotations. Trades could emerge as a viable option, allowing them to acquire established starting pitchers from other teams. The trade market can often provide unexpected opportunities, and both teams might find themselves engaging in discussions with other organizations to address their rotation needs. Additionally, exploring internal options and promoting young prospects could also be considered, offering a chance to evaluate the next generation of starting pitchers and potentially uncover hidden gems within their respective farm systems.
Ultimately, the quest for starting pitching reinforcements remains a crucial objective for the San Francisco Giants and Toronto Blue Jays. The loss of Corbin Burnes to the Diamondbacks has tightened the free-agent market, but viable options still exist. Flaherty, Quintana, and Pivetta represent the most prominent remaining free-agent targets, each offering a different mix of experience, skills, and potential. The Giants and Blue Jays will need to carefully evaluate their options, considering both short-term needs and long-term strategic goals, as they strive to construct rotations capable of leading them to contention. The coming weeks will be crucial as these teams navigate the remaining free-agent market and explore potential trades, aiming to secure the starting pitching necessary to compete in the demanding landscape of Major League Baseball.
