Several teams are keeping a close eye on free agents Michael Lorenzen and Noah Syndergaard as they gear up for the upcoming MLB season. According to a report by FanSided’s Robert Murray, “about 16 teams” were in attendance to watch the pair’s bullpen sessions on Tuesday in California.
Of particular interest are the San Diego Padres and Pittsburgh Pirates, who are reportedly keeping a close eye on Syndergaard. The 31-year-old pitcher, once known as “Thor” for his dominating fastball, has seen a decline in performance in recent years. Last season, he posted a 6.50 ERA and allowed 22 home runs while in the Dodgers and Guardians’ lineup.
Lorenzen, on the other hand, experienced a mid-season trade last year as he moved from the Tigers to the Phillies. Despite throwing a no-hitter during his home debut in Philadelphia, he struggled to maintain consistency on the mound, finishing the season with a 7.96 ERA.
But there may be a glimmer of hope for Syndergaard. Murray noted that the pitcher consistently threw between 93-95 mph during the bullpen session, showing signs of regaining some of his lost speed. This is an encouraging development, as his fastball and sinker averaged around 92 mph each last season.
As the MLB offseason progresses, it will be interesting to see which teams ultimately decide to make a play for Lorenzen and Syndergaard as they seek to bolster their pitching rotations for the upcoming season.