Patrick Sandoval Landing Spots: 3 ideal destinations for veteran pitcher coming off poor 2024 campaign
It was not the season lefty ace Patrick Sandoval was likely hoping for, especially heading into free agency after being non-tendered by the LA Angels. The 28-year-old struggled to produce much of anything on the mound for the Halos, posting a disappointing 2-8 record with a 5.08 ERA and 81 strikeouts over 79.2 innings of work.
Although Sandoval underwent Tommy John surgery in June this past season and is expected to miss most, if not all, of 2025, he could be a valuable addition to interested clubs. The former 11th-round draft selection of the Houston Astros may have struggled in 2024, but he has shown promise at times throughout his MLB career.
Patrick Sandoval threw a complete game shutout in 2022, showing an elite upside that makes him an intriguing low-risk, high-reward option for clubs looking to bolster their rotation. While teams will need to wait for him to recover, he could pay off handsomely down the line.
Here's a look at 3 potential landing spots Patrick Sandoval in free agency as he looks to get his career back on track
#1 Philadelphia Phillies
The Philadelphia Phillies might be the perfect place for Sandoval to rediscover his once-promising form. The Phillies are not only one of the best clubs in baseball, but they have also done a fantastic job at getting the most out of the pitchers they have on their staff.
If Sandoval can tap into the potential he showed earlier in his career with the Angels, the Phillies could find yet another bargain. With Ranger Suarez slated to become an unrestricted free agent at the end of 2025, Sandoval could provide the club with some flexibility in the near future.
#2 San Francisco Giants
Another intriguing landing spot for Sandoval could be the San Francisco Giants. The Giants might not be a contender in 2025, but they are trending positively and could soon find themselves as a threat in the National League.
Enter Patrick Sandoval, who could be worth the wait for San Francisco in 2026 as either a starter or even a long reliever. Given his likely affordable deal, he could be worth a flier.
#3 The Athletics
It may not be what Athletics fans were hoping to see, but the front office has already started overhauling the roster immediately after closing up shop in Oakland. The team has already handed out its largest free agent contract in franchise history by signing Luis Severino to a three-year, $67 million deal.
He will likely not command a contract in that range. However, with the Athletics showing a willingness to spend on veteran talent ahead of their relocation, Patrick Sandoval could be an interesting target. As the club eyes a high-profile move to Las Vegas, adding another proven starter to the roster could further solidify its shift in roster-building philosophy.