“Our goal is to win the World Series.”
Eflin joined Tampa Bay from the Philadelphia Phillies this winter. His contract is worth $40 million over three years. Tampa Bay, one of the leading small market clubs in the major leagues, has opened its wallet. The acquisition of Eflin became the largest contract in Tampa Bay franchise history. It surpassed the 5-year, $35 million contract signed by Wilson Alvarez in 1997.
Tampa Bay invested a lot of money in a pitcher with a history of injury. Eflin has struggled with injuries throughout his career. Even in 2016, his big league debut, Eflin underwent surgery on both knees. Even after the season ended in September 2021, he underwent knee surgery and devoted himself to rehabilitation for a long time. Even at the beginning of this season, Eflin did not play.
Eflin made his comeback against the Oakland Athletics on April 10, but was knocked down again with a knee injury. Eflin, who returned ahead of the postseason, pitched in 10 postseason games as a member of Philadelphia. He played 10⅔ innings and had a decent ERA of 3.38. Despite struggling with injuries throughout his career, Eflin went 36-45 with a 4.49 ERA in 127 games.
Tampa Bay general manager Eric Ninder replied, “To win,” to the reason for recruiting Eflin. On the 14th (Korean time), MLB.com, the official homepage of the Major League Baseball, quoted general manager Ninder and said, “Our biggest goal is to win the World Series. The best way is to win. It could be another way.” 메이저놀이터
Tampa Bay has built a solid starting lineup with the recruitment of Eflin. Tyler Glasnow, Shane Mcclanahan, Drew Rasmussen, Geoffrey Springs, and Eflin made a strong five starters. Attention is focusing on whether Tampa Bay will be able to see the effect of investing a large amount.