MLB Hot Stove Evening Briefing: Veteran pitcher returns to the Cardinals, Mets sign right-handed pitcher to MiLB deal, Zack Britton announces his retirement
The St. Louis Cardinals and free agent right-hander Lance Lynn are in agreement on a one-year, $10 million deal that includes a club option, per ESPN’s Jeff Passan.
The 36-year-old heads back to the organization that drafted him more than a decade and a half ago.
Lynn spent his first six seasons of his career with the Cardinals, he then bounced around the league pitching for five other franchises.
His new deal with St. Louis includes performance bonuses and escalators, the deal could be worth up to $26 million if the Cardinals exercise the veteran’s option.
Last season, Lynn split time between the White Sox and Dodgers. He was traded to Los Angeles at the deadline, pitching better on the west coast than he did in the Windy City.
Prior to the trade, Lynn posted a 6.47 ERA with allowing 28 homers, but then was much better posting a 4.36 ERA and only surrendering 16 homers in 64 innings in Los Angeles.
Zack Britton announces his retirement
Two-time All-Star Zack Britton has announced his retirement after a 12-year career in the big leagues. The left-hander announced the news while interviewing with The Athletic’s Britt Ghiroli.
Britton spent seven and half seasons with the Orioles and four and half with the Yankees. He will finish his career with 154 saves, 35-26 record and 3.13 ERA in 442 games (641 innings).
“My last outing was against the Orioles. I threw a ball to the backstop as my last pitch; I think about that and it sucks,” said Britton. “It might not have been perfect from a career standpoint or going out on a high note, but you don’t always get to pick. My gut was telling me it was time to see what life was like on the other side.”
Britton’s last game was on Sept. 30, 2022 while with the Yankees.
Mets sign Cole Sulser to a minors pact
The Mets signed right-hander Cole Sulser to a minor league deal, it will include an invite to major league spring training.
The 34-year-old began last season with the Diamondbacks, making three appearances until he landed on the injured list following a right shoulder strain.
He returned to the team to make one more appearance at the end of July. Sulser was later designated for assignment before landing with the Rays.
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