Free-agent pitcher Corey Kluber recently told ESPN's Jesse Rogers that he hoped Wednesday's throwing session in Florida would prove to teams that he's healthy enough to play in 2021. Apparently, it did.
According to ESPN's Jeff Passan, Kluber's showcase on Wednesday left scouts "impressed," and there is expected to be a strong market for the former Cleveland ace and two-time Cy Young winner.
Nearly 25 teams showed up at Corey Kluber's showcase today, and scouts came away impressed. His fastball sat 88-90 -- and he's got more velocity in the tank as he builds toward spring training. Kluber threw 30 pitches, including all of his off-speed stuff. Strong market expected.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) January 13, 2021
Kluber has suffered a number of injuries over the last two seasons, including a fractured arm, an abdominal injury and more recently a strain in the back of his throwing shoulder.
The Boston Red Sox and Minnesota Twins have reportedly shown the most interest in the 34-year-old this offseason.
The Red Sox are looking to add some pitching depth after a disastrous 2020 campaign saw Chris Sale sidelined for Tommy John surgery. Eduardo Rodriguez also was ruled out with a heart issue after being diagnosed with COVID-19.
If the Twins add Kluber, he will join a rotation that includes Jose Berrios, Randy Dobnak, Kenta Maeda and Michael Pineda.
The right-hander owns a career 3.16 ERA and 1.086 WHIP.
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