With the vast majority of MLB-caliber starters already off the board, many contenders are currently inking lottery-tickets for the back of their rotation and as organizational depth.
This is the case of the Cleveland Guardians, a team that is set at pitching but is betting on some “project” arms, hoping to hit the jackpot.
“Guardians sign Touki Toussaint to a minor-league contract. In his 57 MLB games with Braves: 170.1 IP, 5.34 ERA, 104 BB, 181 K,” Farm to Fame tweeted.
Once upon a time, not so long ago, Toussaint was a top prospect in the Atlanta Braves system.
He had big stuff, but command was always on and off with him.
In 170.1 frames with the Braves and the Los Angeles Angels, Toussaint has a 5.34 ERA, but more than a strikeout per inning (181 punchouts).
If there is an organization known for getting the best out of struggling or flawed pitchers, it’s the Guardians.
They have developed an impressive rotation and some useful depth to go with it.
They know, however, that if they can “fix” Toussaint and get him to throw strikes more consistently, they could unearth a hidden gem.
For all his struggles as a major leaguer, the right-hander is still just 26 years old.
He has been trying to establish himself as a big leaguer for five seasons, but has failed to do so.
He represents a nice challenge for the Guardians’ player development and coaching staff.
This is the definition of a low-risk, high-reward signing.
It’s unclear if they will try him as a starter or as a reliever, but he carries a low floor and significantly high ceiling.
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