With January coming to a close, MLB insider Jon Morosi discussed pitchers and catchers reporting to spring training in a couple of weeks as well as the market for free agent pitchers Kyle Gibson and Andrew Heaney in an appearance on MLB Network. On Hot Stove, Morosi said that Gibson and Heaney could be fits for the New York Mets or Atlanta Braves, with both teams looking to complete their rotations.
Pitching for the St. Louis Cardinals last season, Gibson sported an 8-8 record with a 4.24 ERA with 151 strikeouts and a 1.350 WHIP in 169 2/3. Heaney sported an unfavorable record of 5-14 with a 4.28 ERA with 159 strikeouts across 160 innings for the Texas Rangers in 2024. But despite this, Morosi saw their ability to pitch 160 or more innings last season as a standout quality.
The latest on the free agent markets for veteran pitchers Kyle Gibson and Andrew Heaney, according to @jonmorosi
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— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) February 1, 2025
MLB Insider Morosi Discusses Market for Veteran Arms Heaney, Gibson
Heaney’s upside includes his ability to take charge on the mound. This is predominantly seen through his ability to mix up his pitches. He leads with his slider, which is on point when thrown effectively. This is his biggest asset against right-handed hitters. Heaney also has a solid fastball. With his easy delivery, it lives around 89-93 mph, but he can bring it up to 95. The 33-year-old remains unsigned, and as Morosi noted, he may wait until spring training is underway before joining a team.
Gibson’s upside is his veteran experience as a right-handed pitcher, making him a reliable option for the Braves or Mets. He is the type of pitcher who can pitch deep into games and eat up innings. Gibson is a solid back-of-the-rotation starter who has a record of performing well in surges, and could be a good fit for teams looking for hurlers who can pitch deep into games.
He is nearing the career milestone of 2,000 innings in the majors, which he could reach if he stays healthy for the entire season. Gibson has a career 4.52 ERA and a winning career record of 112-108. He is 37 and will be entering his 13th MLB season in 2025, the first seven of which he spent with the Minnesota Twins.
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