Apr 27, 2021; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Chicago Cubs manager David Ross, left, removes Chicago Cubs relief pitcher Brandon Workman from the mound during the eighth inning against the Atlanta Braves at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports
After missing out on Clayton Kershaw, the Texas Rangers decided to add to their bullpen by signing former Red Sox and Cubs reliever Brandon Workman.
If at first you don’t succeed, try again. That’s the Rangers motto on Friday night as it pertains to adding to their pitching staff.
Workman was most effective in 2019 when he was with the Boston Red Sox. During that time period, he registered 16 saves and a 1.88 ERA.
But he hasn’t been the same since then. When his time in Boston ended, Workman failed to regain the same form that made him so reliable on the ’19 Red Sox. In 2020 he was part of one of the worst bullpens in baseball in Philadelphia, and in 2021 his statistics got even worse.
Brandon Workman contract details
Workman’s contract is a one-year minor-league deal that pays him $1 million if he’s in the majors. The deal, which comes with a May 1 opt out, contains $100,000 in incentives if he pitches in 40, 45, 50, 60 and 65 games. He can earn an additional $150,000 if he pitches in 70 games.
As a veteran and former reliable ‘pen option, Workman is trying to prove he can return to form. In Texas, he could receive that opportunity.
The deal includes an invite to Spring Training, as well as plenty of incentives should he exceed expectations.
In essence, Workman is betting on himself.