While there does not appear to be any shortage of interest in Yu Darvish, it’s yet to manifest in his signing a new contract. That’s despite Darvish residing as arguably the stop starting pitcher who’s available on the open market.
To this point, it’s believed the Chicago Cubs, Houston Astros, Los Angeles Dodgers, Minnesota Twins, New York Yankees and Texas Rangers have all checked in with Darvish at some point during the winter. The Yankees reportedly presented the 31-year-old with a contract offer.
Moreover, Darvish is said to have at least one five-year contract on the table, but it’s unclear from which club. As he continues to mull over options, the Philadelphia Phillies have at least taken temperature of the market, according to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic:
#Phillies checking in with Darvish and most of high-profile free agents, sources tell The Athletic. Idea is to assess respective markets to see if deal makes sense. Unlikely Phils would be high bidder, but if player fell into their range – preferably short-term – they might jump.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) January 24, 2018
The Phillies find themselves in a rebuild and have a small connection to Darvish through manager Gabe Kapler. Prior to being hired by the Phillies, he spent the past two seasons with the Dodgers as director of player development.
With Spring Training beginning in less than one month, Darvish reportedly is expected to sign a contract sooner rather than later. Reunions with the Dodgers or Rangers have not been ruled out, but re-signing with Los Angeles may be unlikely given their desire to remain under the luxury tax threshold.
Meanwhile, the Twins have made no secret over their preference and desire to sign the right-hander. Darvish went a combined 10-12 with a 3.86 ERA, 3.99 FIP and 1.16 WHIP in 31 starts.
He anticipates faring much better in 2018, which would be Darvish’s second full season since undergoing Tommy John surgery in 2015.
