MLB analyst explains why Chris Bassitt still sits on the open market

Jared Bloom

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MLB analyst explains why Chris Bassitt still sits on the open market image

While Chris Bassitt has not been a household name over the years, he has quietly been working as a workhorse. Throughout the past four seasons, he has made at least 30 starts. 

However, this past season, he showed he had another tool in his game. He came out of the bullpen for the Toronto Blue Jays during their World Series run, posting a 1.04 ERA with 10 strikeouts across 8.2 innings of work. 

So, he should have been a lock to be one of the earlier pitchers signed, right? Well, no. He still sits on the open market while pitchers and catchers are getting ready to report in just a few weeks. 

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MLB analyst explains why Chris Bassitt still sits on the open market

It seemed like a reunion was in store for Bassitt to return to Toronto. That was until they struck deals with Dylan Cease and Cody Ponce. 

Instead, he will likely look for an opportunity with a different team. 

Many fans are shocked a pitcher of his quality still sits unsigned, but Bleacher Report's Joel Reuter explains the reason for his slow market. 

"Chris Bassitt will turn 37 years old before the start of the 2026 season, and he is still chasing his first World Series ring, so it's not surprising that he is looking for the perfect fit in free agency."

Reuter explains that Bassitt is getting up there in age and is still chasing a World Series ring. Because of this, he has taken his time this offseason, trying to find the right fit on a contending club. 

The Philadelphia Phillies could be a team to watch out for here. They just lost Ranger Suarez, and Zack Wheeler is rehabbing an elbow injury. They need an innings eater and someone who won't cost the team much money.

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