Steve Cishek
This last name is a bit of a diversion from the rest of the names on this list. We have explored primarily the top-tier of available pitchers in light of recent rumors surrounding the Twins, Steve Cishek may not make that top-tier but is still a worthwhile arm to look at.
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The one-time Marlins closer bounced around the league from the Cardinals, to the Seattle Mariners, and finally landed with the Rays in 2017 and proved he still has the ability to be a top-level reliever. In 49 appearances, Cishek struck out 41 batters and held a 2.01 ERA. More impressively he had a 1.09 ERA in 26 games with the Rays. This return to form has MLB Trade Rumors predicting Cishek will receive a 2 year, $14 million contract.
Cishek relies heavily on a Sinker. In an interview with David Laurilla at FanGraphs, Cishek mentions that his Sinker requires a lot of feel and batters tell him that it looks like it is coming in much faster than it actually is. Batters are right. Cishek’s average velocity on his sinker is right around 90 mph and according to Statcast’s perceived velocity tracking, Cishek’s sinker appears to average 92.24 mph.
Next: Minnesota Twins: 10 possible bargain free agent pitchers
We have covered a lot of the free agent pitching market here at Puckett’s Pond in the last couple weeks. Which free agents would you like to see the Twins pursue? How many starters and how many relievers should the front office try to sign? The front office appears ready to capitalize on a successful 2017 so stay alert for some signings to happen.