The Cleveland Indians have placed relief pitcher Brad Hand on outright waivers, it has been reported today, and the Atlanta Braves have declined their 2021 option on Darren O’Day, making him a free agent.
The moves don’t bode well for players hitting the free agent market. Hand, a 30 year old left hander, led the majors in saves and games finished in 2020, putting up a 2.05 ERA and 1.37 FIP. Since 2016, Hand has a 2.70 ERA and 2.92 FIP in 320 innings pitched. Normally, his $10 million team option for 2021, which has a $1 million buyout, would be a no-brained to pick up.