Mike Leake undeniably had a disappointing season for the St. Louis Cardinals in 2016. Signed as a mid-rotation innings eater, Leake put up a career worst ERA of 4.69. Additionally, his 176.2 innings were his lowest total since 2011.
The amount of blame that is assignable to Leake is up for debate. For one, he battled shingles, which costed him a start or two. Additionally, he was backed by the seventh worst defense in the MLB by Defensive Runs Above Average. Whether the St. Louis Cardinals actually improved their defense this offseason is up for debate, but a better defensive team in 2017 would benefit Mike Leake.