Cliff Lee Is Looking for Team That’s a “Perfect Fit” in 2016

Now that the NFL season is officially over, it’s time to turn our attention to baseball. Back in November of 2015, the Philadelphia Phillies declined their club option on Cliff Lee, which came as no surprise. Lee has battled an elbow injury over the last two years, so when the decision was made by the Phillies to decline his option, the immediate question that came to mind was: is this the end of Cliff Lee’s career?

Well, according to Nick Cafardo of the Boston Globe, multiple teams have explored the idea of signing Lee. This discussion has come as recently as this past week. However, teams are unsure about devoting $6 million to $8 million.

Lee’s agent Darek Braunecker said the pitcher would need “a perfect fit” to pitch in 2016. To me, it seems most likely that Lee doesn’t start the season on any MLB roster. As the season progresses though, teams will always be looking for pitchers and Lee could become more attractive at that point. It would make the most sense to potential suitors, plus it gives Lee more time to rehabilitate his elbow.

Lee’s last contract with the Phillies was  a five-year, $120 million contract, which Lee signed back in 2010. In his last season with the Phillies Lee had a 3.65 ERA with 72 strikeouts and 12 walks in 81 1/3 innings.