Padres Pitcher Becomes Free Agent After Impressive First Season As Starter

Seth Lugo has chosen to decline his $7.5 million player option for the 2024 season, making him a free agent.

This decision comes after an impressive 2023 season with the San Diego Padres, where he successfully transitioned from a reliever to a starter, making 26 starts and pitching 146.2 innings with a solid 3.57 ERA, 1.20 WHIP, and 140 strikeouts.

Seth Lugo has declined his player option and will test free agency, per @AriA1exander pic.twitter.com/cLhrqqNEA0
— Talkin’ Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) November 3, 2023

Lugo's versatility and strong performance have likely increased his market value, and at the age of 33, he is now seeking a long-term commitment in free agency, potentially securing a more lucrative contract.

Lugo's move to test free agency is a significant one as he approaches his 34th birthday.

Last winter, he signed a two-year, $15 million deal with the Padres with the aim of establishing himself as a mid-rotation starter.

SOURCES: RHP Seth Lugo has declined his player option for 2024. pic.twitter.com/RuLLtcHvRy
— Ari Alexander (@AriA1exander) November 2, 2023

His successful transition and impressive 2023 performance have likely put him in a favorable position to secure a multi-year contract, possibly even a three-year deal, as he looks to secure his baseball career's financial future.

Over his eight-year career, Lugo holds a 3.50 ERA, 1.17 WHIP, with 648 strikeouts across 641 innings and 301 appearances. Photo Credit: Ed Szczepanski-USA TODAY Sports