Last week, we watched the Phillies sign Zack Wheeler to a five-year, $118 million contract. A name that has come up for the team since the trade deadline last year is the former San Francisco Giant, Madison Bumgarner.
According to Bob Nightengale, Bumgarner is seeking a very similar deal to Wheeler. The southpaw wishes for a five-year, around $100 million contract. As the near 31-year-old lefty approaches his 12th MLB season, accumulating almost 1,850 innings, five years may be a steep asking price. However, that should not stop the Phillies.
An Incredible Career
Madison Bumgarner hit his prime from 2012-2016, where his sub-three ERA dominated batters throughout the league. During his tenure, his San Francisco Giants became a dynasty, winning three world series in the six-year stretch. Between 2011 and 2016, Bumgarner had at least 13 wins in each season. As win/loss record is not much of a relevant stat for pitchers any longer, it is also important to note his even 3.00 ERA over that span as well.
In his career, Bumgarner has 15 total complete games, with six of those being shutouts. Since 2012, where Bumgarner’s first complete occurred, the Phillies only have 17 total as a team.
Playoff Machine
To be honest, Bumgarner’s playoff dominance is the true reason why the Phillies should sign him. The Southpaw has a 2.11 ERA in 12 postseason appearances. His ERA in the World Series is a mere 0.25. His dominance throughout the playoffs is what made him as special as he is.
For a team ready to make a playoff push like the Phillies, MadBum would be a perfect fit. Not only would he contribute to about 4-5 wins himself during the regular season, but he could pitch every fifth day and win the team some playoff games. Along with this, let’s not forget to mention his incredible leadership skills, which would be crucial to the young Phillies’ team.
If the Phillies are unable to land the all-so desirable Gerrit Cole, MadBum should be the first person the team calls. Well honestly, even if they do sign Cole, why not negotiate with Bumgarner anyways?
Put it in perspective- a pitching staff of (Cole, maybe?), Wheeler, Nola, Arrieta, Bumgarner, and Eflin. Sure, the average age may be over 30, but the once depleted pitching staff of the Phillies could bring back the nostalgia of the “four aces” era of 2011 Philadelphia baseball.
Mandatory Credit: John Hefti-USA TODAY Sports
