The Royals resigned Luke Hochevar to their already brilliant bullpen, and the Braves signed Jim Johnson. Both relievers previously had incredible lights out ability, but after Hochevar's Tommy John in 2014 and Johnson's disappointing season they both must prove that they still have what it takes.
Luke Hochevar
The Royals resigned Hochevar to a two year $10 million dollar deal early Wednesday. The Royals bullpen was a huge part of their 2014 pennant even without Hochevar. Wade Davis Kelvin Herrera and Greg Holland finished 2nd, 4th, and 7th among relief pitchers in WAR, combined earning a WAR of 9.0. Bringing back Hochevar could make their bullpen strong enough to launch the team into 2015 to contend once again. If Hochevar can come back with his 2013 WAR of 2.0 and the other three can replicate 2014 these 4 would combine for a 11.0 WAR in the front end of the Royals bullpen! The bar is high for the Royals to outdo their 2014 season but they might have a shot. |
Jim Johnson
Jim Johnson is a big question for 2015, but the Braves are willing to take the risk. He was signed to a two year 1.6 million dollar contract with up to o.9 million in performance bonuses. After stellar 2011-13 seasons earning a 6.6 WAR over 3 years Johnson struggled last year and got a -1.7 WAR in 53.1 IP for the A's and Tigers. He is a high risk player but if the Braves can et him back to his former self then they will have a great set up man to back up Craig Kimbrel's lights out closing job. |