Declining the qualifying offer in search of a more lucrative payday resulted in Nick Pivetta’s stock being weighed down by draft-pick compensation. While old perceptions die hard, it’s possible that teams are viewing the right-hander with some skepticism. However, a few teams have emerged as potential suitors over the past month. Among them are the Cincinnati Reds and Toronto Blue Jays (who have since signed Max Scherzer). It’s also possible that another club could pursue Pivetta in time for spring training.
The Athletic’s Chad Jennings believes the Athletics could make a play for Pivetta.
“The A’s have already signed one free agent attached to the qualifying offer. So, what’s one more? Add Pivetta to Luis Severino and Jeffrey Springs, and the A’s would have a completely new top of the rotation while leaving room for young arms JP Sears, Joey Estes and Mitch Spence to round out the group. With a young and exciting lineup, and a couple of legitimate late-inning relievers — Mason Miller and Jose Leclerc — another proven starter could really raise the floor in Sacramento.”
Athletics Linked in Nick Pivetta Pursuit
Jennings’ perspective not only highlights the A’s potential move, but underscores how adding a proven starter like Pivetta could dramatically elevate their rotation, complementing both veteran talent and promising young arms.
Pivetta’s 2024 season with the Boston Red Sox showcased his resilience and potential. Despite a challenging win-loss record of 6-12, he posted a solid 4.14 ERA over 145 2/3 innings, striking out 172 batters. Notably, on May 30, Pivetta tied a Red Sox franchise record by striking out eight consecutive batters against the Detroit Tigers, demonstrating his capacity for dominant performances. The Red Sox acquired Pivetta in August 2020 from the Philadelphia Phillies in exchange for two relievers. The trade proved beneficial for Boston, as Pivetta made 131 appearances (107 starts), going 37-41 with a 4.29 ERA.
How Pivetta’s Market Value is Shaped
As a free agent, Pivetta’s market value is influenced by the competitive landscape of the 2024-25 MLB offseason. Teams like the Los Angeles Dodgers have made significant investments in starting pitching, signing top-tier talents such as Roki Sasaki and Blake Snell. This trend underscores the importance of acquiring proven starters like Pivetta to strengthen pitching rotations.
While the A’s could certainly benefit from his presence, market dynamics remain complex. The Red Sox might not want to wait around and could opt for a short-term deal to reunite with him. Even over the offseason, the Red Sox seemed to have moved on when they traded for Garrett Crochet and a free-agent deal for Walker Buehler.
Meanwhile, the San Diego Padres may also enter the fray—provided they can find the right trade partner for Dylan Cease. With several scenarios on the table, Pivetta’s free-agent status remains one of the most intriguing puzzles of the season.
Main Photo: © Paul Rutherford-Imagn Images
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