Branden Looper

[Hermie13]

Taking a break from the 'injured' pitchers.....what about Looper? Struggled a bit in 2007 transitioning from the pen to the rotation (4.94 ERA), but had a solid year last year winning 12 games (should have been more if not for the Cards lousy pen) and having a 4.16 ERA.

Probably won't be looking for a huge salary (no $10+M/yr long-term deals), so could fit into our price range. Threw 175 innings in 2007 then 199 last year. Not an ideal #3 but a solid #4 that'll eat innings for you. Coming to the AL isn't the best thing for him, but we could do a lot worse. A 2-3 year deal around $6-8M for him might be enough. Wouldn't break the bank or set us back too much. Heck, he'd even be an extra insurance for Wood as he's had 3 seasons of 28+ saves in his career.

Also is a Wichita State Shocker just like Wedge (ha, means nothing but great team nickname).


Haven't heard a lot about him or where he's looking at going though. The Cardinals declined to offer him arbitration so not sure how hard they're looking at re-signing him. One report/rumor I saw had him only at $5M/yr and linked to the Mets and Tigers (was back in August/September though so a lot has changed). For only $5M I'd definately jump in. Inning eaters with decent ERAs don't come that cheaply normally.....

[Hermie13]

yup, definately mispelled his name in the heading, lol

[jellis]

not opposed to him, 2 years ago he had some greta months and some abd months I know this because I had him on a fantasy team. We could do a lot worse

[cardiackidz]

i wouldnt mind looper.

[carnegie44115]

One year/$6.5 million, but there is probably some better options out there if the Indians wait and see how things go.