The rumored Cardinals target has officially signed a deal with the Padres, therefore ending any potential pursuit.
The bullpen is likely the most vulnerable position on the Cardinals’ squad at the moment. While some contend that the Cardinals ought to include one more starter, St. Louis is in dire need of strengthening their bullpen.
Fortunately for the team, there are still plenty of pitchers available despite St. Louis having one of the worst bullpens in baseball last season. Despite this, one speculated target is now officially off the board as the San Diego Padres signed former Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles star Yuki Matsui, as reported by Bob Nightengale of USA Today Sports.
“The San Diego Padres hit the free agent market, sign (left-handed pitcher) Yuki Matsui to a five-year, $28 million contract,” Nightengale stated. “They have plenty more holes to fill with about $20 million left in the budget for 2024 payroll.”
Matsui, who was among the market’s most intriguing relievers, has now joined the Padres. He played for the Golden Eagles over the previous ten seasons, recording 236 saves including a career-high 39 in 2023 and a career 2.43 ERA.