Cal Quantrill Landing Spots: Predicting 3 teams that might target starter coming off rough 2024 campaign with Rockies
It was not the season that veteran starter Cal Quantrill was hoping for in 2024. The 29-year-old from Port Hope, Ontario struggled for the Colorado Rockies, posting a poor 4.98 ERA over 148.1 innings of work last year. The former first-round pick of the San Diego Padres has shown flashes of his potential at the Major League level. However, inconsistencies have plagued him throughout his career.
Despite his struggles last season with the Colorado Rockies, Cal Quantrill has looked impressive at times throughout his career, which could help him find a new club this offseason. Although he may not be able to secure a massive, long-term deal, he should draw interest from teams looking to bolster their pitching staff.
Here's a look at 3 potential landing spots for Cal Quantrill in free agency
#1 Kansas City Royals
The Kansas City Royals are primed to make another deep postseason run in 2025, thanks to the likes of Bobby Witt Jr. And while the core is set, they still need to round out their roster. Even though Quantrill has struggled at times, he could be an intriguing low-risk, high-reward signing for the Royals as they look to bolster their pitching staff ahead of 2025.
Although the club has been able to add fellow veteran Michael Wacha this offseason, there are still some question marks surrounding the back half of their rotation. Quantrill could serve as a back-end starter or a quality bullpen arm for the club this upcoming season. Depending on his salary demands, he could be a low-cost addition to the team.
#2 Chicago White Sox
Unlike the Kansas City Royals, the Chicago White Sox will be as far away as contenders as possible in 2025. This is why adding a veteran such as Cal Quantrill could benefit that club but as a potential trade chip as opposed to a significant contributor. If Quantrill can bounce back in 2025, he could be an easy trade candidate next summer.
#3 Atlanta Braves
The Atlanta Braves are as elite as they come, especially their pitching rotation. Of course, this is the case when they are all healthy. Spencer Strider is coming off an injury-shortened 2024 campaign, while Chris Sale has not exactly been at the pinnacle of good health throughout his career. Enter Cal Quantrill, who could be an affordable addition for a club that has struggled to keep their squad on the field.
Another reason the Atlanta Braves are an intriguing landing spot for Quantrill is the fact that the club has historically been able to get the most out of their pitches. Veterans such as Reynaldo Lopez and Jesse Lopez have thrived with the Braves but struggled elsewhere. There is a chance that the Braves could unlock the potential hiding inside of Cal Quantrill if they were to sign him.