A starter turned relief pitcher over the last few years, Tommy Hunter is picking up a lot of interest, especially from the Detroit Tigers, Cleveland Indians and San Diego Padres, but doesn’t seem to be in any hurry to sign with anyone.
The 29-year old played for both the Baltimore Orioles and the Chicago Cubs (traded there) last season, having overall a rough year, especially after joining the Cubs, posting a 4.18 ERA although he’s been striking out batters a lot more than earlier in his career.
His workload has been declining. From 86 innings in 2013 it’s dropped to about 60 nowadays, with Hunter looking to pick up his numbers, although he’s trying to see if he can find the right situation for him to thrive in.
Hunter has been in the league since 2008, playing for the Rangers and Orioles before his short stint in Chicago last season, not being a part of their playoff roster.
He made $4.6 million last season and is obviously looking for a team that gives him more than just a short term, cheap deal. He was at his best in 2013, with an 0.985 WHIP and a 2.81 ERA, striking out 7.1 batters per nine innings. He did do well on that front with the Cubs, striking out 8.6 per nine innings, the highest number of his career.