The Minnesota Twins’ search for reliable starting pitching came to a head on Thursday. Multiple reports indicate that the team has signed veteran right-handed starter Ervin Santana to a four-year, $54 million contract.
ervin santana is going to the twins. @JeffPassan says will $54M, 4 yrs
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) December 11, 2014
While a live arm, Santana isn’t necessarily the representation of consistency, and throwing $13.5 million at him annually seems to be a tad misplaced. Santana did put up a solid 3.95 ERA in 31 starts for the Atlanta Braves last season. It was also the first time since 2010 that he finished with a winning record (14-10).
Though, advanced stats aren’t as kind to the soon-to-be 32 year old. He boasted a 1.31 WHIP while playing at an ultra pitcher-friendly ballpark in Atlanta.
Always in search of veteran starters, the Twins added Phil Hughes on a long-term deal last season. They now appear willing to dole out a whole bunch of money to yet another mid-tier arm.
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