Caleb Ferguson is one of the most underrated relievers remaining on the free-agent market. He is coming off a difficult season split between the New York Yankees and Houston Astros, which saw him post a 1-4 record with a 4.64 ERA and 67 strikeouts over 54.1 innings of work.
Although his ERA and 1.491 WHIP in 2024 leave something to be desired, his ability to rack up strikeouts makes him an undervalued talent. Ferguson, an elite, 11.1 K/9 placed him ahead of higher-profile relievers such as Jhoan Duran of the Minnesota Twins (10.93) and Evan Phillips of the Los Angeles Dodgers (10.37).
Ferguson's underlying productivity makes him an intriguing target for several clubs looking to bolster their bullpens ahead of the new season. He may have his faults but could be a low-cost bargain for teams in need of middle-relief depth, especially one who can rack up Ks.
Here's a closer look at 3 potential landing spots for Caleb Ferguson in free agency
#1 - New York Mets
The New York Mets are one of the top contenders in the Majors that could use additional help in the bullpen. Even though Edwin Diaz struggled at times in 2024, he is still an elite closer, so adding lock-down arms in front of him will be important. Ferguson could be a solid addition for the Mets as they look to take their revamped roster on a lengthy postseason run.
The New York Mets also have several vacancies in their bullpen staff, as veteran relievers such as Adam Ottavino, Brooks Raley, Ryne Stanek and Drew Smith are currently unrestricted free agents. Caleb Ferguson could be an intriguing replacement if they look to move on from the players mentioned above.
#2 - Boston Red Sox
Another club looking to contend for the postseason in 2025 is the Boston Red Sox. The front office has been actively adding to their pitching staff all offseason, acquiring a number of talented pitchers, including Garrett Crochet, Aroldis Chapman and Walker Buehler. The bullpen could use some additional help, which makes a high-strikeout guy like Ferguson an ideal trade target.
#3 - Toronto Blue Jays
It has not been the offseason that many Toronto Blue Jays have hoped for as the front office has remained relatively quiet. However, the team has made a few smaller moves that could pay dividends this upcoming season, like trading for Andres Gimenez and re-signing Yimi Garcia.
While Caleb Ferguson may not be the sexiest signing, he could become a major impact player for the Blue Jays in 2025. The team has no established closer right now. However, a bullpen core of Ferguson and Garcia with Chad Green and Erik Swanson could have a major upside.