Former Los Angeles Dodgers closer Eric Gagne made headlines when he expressed interest in an MLB comeback. Three months later, Gagne has signed a contract, but it’s with the Long Island Ducks of the independent Atlantic League.
Rich Hill revitalized his career with the Ducks in 2015. He latched on with the Oakland Athletics the following year and signed a three-year, $48 million contract with the Dodgers last December.
While Gagne would be hard-pressed to achieve similar success, the signing potentially leading to a contract with a Major League team is not beyond the realm of possibility. The three-time All-Star spent Spring Training with the Dodgers and also pitched for Team Canada in the 2017 World Baseball Classic. He threw 2.1 scoreless innings in one appearance in the WBC.
While serving as a guest instructor at Camelback Ranch, Gagne also held multiple throwing sessions that were attended by scouts and club representatives. Some Dodgers players remarked Gagne had much of the same devastating changeup he flashed during his time as an elite closer.
Gagne openly shared his preference to sign with Los Angeles, and it was reported there was at least some mutual interest, though traction toward a deal was never gained.
The 41-year-old recorded 161 saves with a 3.27 ERA and 1.11 WHIP in parts of eight seasons with the Dodgers. Gagne was named an All-Star from 2002-04, and won the 2003 National League Cy Young Award when he converted all 55 save opportunities with a 1.10 ERA.
In 10 seasons with the Dodgers, Texas Rangers, Boston Red Sox and Brewers, Gagne recorded 187 saves and yielded a 3.47 ERA.
