MLB moves so far: LA Angles take a punt on Noah Syndergaard, while Jose Berrios signs a seven-year $131m Toronto Blue Jays deal

The MLB off-season is only two weeks old, but there has been plenty of significant transactions and acquisitions that have happened so far. It’s safe to say we are in for an entertaining off-season if this trend keeps up. TIBS News looks into the moves that have been made to date…

Andrew Heaney signs with the Los Angeles Dodgers

On November 7, it was announced that the Dodgers had signed left-handed pitcher Andrew Heaney on a one-year deal worth $8.5million (£6.3m).

Heany had a very turbulent 2021 as the ace of a weak Los Angeles Angels rotation at the start of the season. He was dealt with the New York Yankees at the trade deadline, where he struggled mightily, pitching to a 7.32 Earned Run Average (ERA).

It’s unsure to predict how this signing will turn out for the Dodgers. He will be joining the best team in baseball but will he continue his poor 2021 form or will he succeed under the best front office in baseball?

Eduardo Rodriguez signs with the Detroit Tigers

The Detroit Tigers made a bold statement early in the offseason, signing left-handed pitcher Eduardo Rodriguez to a five-year deal worth $80m (£59.7m).

Rodriguez didn’t pitch in 2020 due to post-Covid myocarditis. It was unsure whether he would return to the game following his diagnosis, but he did, starting 32 games for the Boston Red Sox in 2021, pitching to a 4.74 ERA.

Under the management of AJ Hinch, the Tigers showed potential that they could be emerging from their seemingly endless rebuild. Eduardo Rodriguez provides veteran leadership at the top of a young Tigers pitching staff.

Jose Berrios signs a Toronto Blue Jays extension

It was announced that Jose Berrios and the Toronto Blue Jays have agreed to a seven-year contract worth $131m (£97.8m).

The Blue Jays acquired Berrios during the trade deadline in 2021. He pitched very well during his time with the Jays and got rewarded with a big contract.

Noah Syndergaard signs with the Los Angeles Angels

On November 16, it was announced that Noah Syndergaard had joined the Los Angeles Angels on a one-year deal worth $21million (£15.7m).

Syndergaard appeared in just two games for the New York Mets in 2021 after recovering from Tommy John Surgery. The right-hander pitched to a 3.31 ERA during his time with the Mets.

This is a high-risk, high reward move by the Angels, spending more than $20m (£14.9m) on a pitcher who has just recovered from major surgery. If it works, it becomes a bargain. If it doesn’t work, it becomes a significant waste of money.

By Alex Worth