Shawn Tolleson, Texas Rangers
This is very much a buy-low option for the Phillies. The big appeal of Shawn Tolleson is the fact that he will be the least expensive closer on the market. After holding opposition to a .675 OPS and 2.99 ERA, Tolleson’s ERA jumped to 7.68 in 2016. He was removed from the closer’s role, and lost the remainder of his season to a back injury soon thereafter.
Tolleson’s velocity hasn’t changed much (his changeup was 3 MPH faster in ‘16), so control seems to be his issue. He’s recovered from the back injury that ended his season, and just became a free agent after rejecting his outright assignment to Triple-A Round Rock. For the cost of arbitration, the Phillies could end up with a surprisingly effective closer in 2017.
Next: NL Needs to Implement the Designated Hitter
Estimated Offer – Remainder of Rookie Contract (2nd year arbitration plus team control through 2018)