The upcoming free agent class is a peculiar one, with a distinct lack of impact talent, particularly among starting pitchers. While the focus has been on the hitting group, the starting pitcher market is also underperforming. The article highlights the struggles of the middle tier of free agent starters, with a particular emphasis on Freddy Peralta, who is on track for the second-largest contract despite a solid but not exceptional first year with the Mets. The top performers through the season's first two months are all on the older side, with Kevin Gausman, Michael King, and Nick Martinez leading the way. However, the market's willingness to go long term on pitchers is limited, with only a few 32-year-old starters commanding four or more years in the past decade. The article also mentions the struggles of younger pitchers, with most of the 31 and under starters either not making the initial Power Ranking or performing poorly in the first two months of the season. The author concludes by emphasizing the importance of long-term contracts for pitchers and the need for teams to carefully evaluate their options.
