San Diego Padres: Non Tendered Players The Friars Should Sign

SP Tyson Ross:

Starting with what should be somewhat obvious, but the Padres really should bring back their top starter from the past three years, despite barely pitching all of last year.

Tyson Ross worked to a 3.06 ERA from 2013-15, which paved the way to his first Opening Day start in 2016. He also struck out 9.2 batters per nine in his time here, while also keeping his HR rate down, with a 0.5 HR/9.

The main knock on him is his control(career 3.6 BB/9) and injury risk due to all the sliders he throws. However, under Darren Balsley’s tutelage, he cut into that number from his time in Oakland.

Again, this is the man who nearly got us Javier Baez last offseason from the Cubs. So, why they couldn’t shell out an estimated $10 million for the chance for him to turn it around and net them a prospect package at the deadline baffles me. Now, he is free to sign with any team, and I wouldn’t put my money on him returning. Doesn’t mean he shouldn’t return though.