Kikuchi is also on the wrong side of 30... you won't be able to find a suitable replacement at the price tag.
Pitchers don't age the same way position players do. You see many more age 35+ pitchers than position players, and it is widely accepted that physical peak is much later as well. I just looked. In 2024, 25 players were over 35. 16 pitchers and 9 position players.
I think we will always have good pitching the way we develop pitchers but we really need a break through offensive player. Other than Chas last year and playoff Pena, we haven't had anyone break through since Tucker. Hopefully Brice and Dezenzo can be that guy.
I was countering someone's previous post that argued Ronel was too old to keep... which is ridiculous considering his service time status
I hope we can resign this dude. He's been good for us...I guess it all depends on age, but I'm hearing Dana hinting at Kikuchi leaving?
Sucks man. If any Japanese fa has a comparable offer from a team on the West Coast vs any other team in the league, chances are they're choosing the west coast.
I mean, so would I. All things the same, I'm choosing the west coast 10/10 times. Especially if you are making tons of money.