MLB Rumors: A fascinating World Series champion pitcher has been linked to the Atlanta Braves or Chicago Cubs.

MLB Rumors: A fascinating World Series champion pitcher has been linked to the Atlanta Braves or Chicago Cubs.

Ryne Stanek, a right-handed reliever, has drawn interest from the Braves and Cubs. The 33-year-old journeyman Stanek split time between the Mariners and Mets during his difficult 2024 season. In comparison to his best years with the Houston Astros, he recorded a 4.88 ERA over 55 1/3 innings, which was a notable decline. His 27.8% strikeout rate gives them an idea of what the hard-throwing righty could bring, even in spite of the difficult season.

There is an interesting pattern in Stanek's performance over the last four seasons. Despite having a 2.41 ERA and 3.62 FIP in his first two years with Houston (2021–2022), he saw a sharp decline in his performance in 2023 and 2024. His performance decreased, as evidenced by his rising ERA to 4.50 and matching FIP of 4.36. 

Notably, his improved walk percentage (down from 13.2% to 10.1%) and strikeout rate (down slightly from 28.2% to 26%) have both improved positively.

Stanek's batted ball profile is the root of his problems. His barrel rate has risen to 8.4% over the last two seasons, and he has given up fly balls at a significantly greater rate (51.6% as opposed to 43.5% in 2021–2022). There has also been a sharp rise in the number of home runs allowed, as the proportion of his fly balls that have been converted to home runs has increased from 7.8% to 10.9%. Stanek still has a scorching fastball that averages 97.9 mph in spite of these problems, and his 2024 SIERA of 3.56, which is his best since 2018, suggests that he may recover.

The Cubs' policy of focusing on bullpen reclamation projects is consistent with their interest in Stanek. Pitchers like Julian Merryweather and Mark Leiter Jr. have been successful for them, and Stanek's velocity and past performance may make him a low-risk, high-reward addition. Stanek might offer depth at a reasonable price, even though he won't have the same impact as other relievers Chicago has targeted this offseason, like Tanner Scott or Ryan Pressly.

However, because of Joe Jimenez's injury, the Braves have vacancies in their main bullpen. With Aaron Bummer, Pierce Johnson, and Raisel Iglesias already on the team, Atlanta might use another seasoned arm.

After Max Fried and Charlie Morton left, the Braves may find Stanek's price appealing as they weigh their bullpen requirements against possible rotation reinforcements.

In the end, Stanek seems to be viewed by the Braves and Cubs as a cheap option with the potential for a successful season. Despite his inconsistent recent play, teams trying to bolster their bullpens for 2025 should take heart from his strong strikeout rates and exceptional velocity.