James Paxton

Mariners LHP James Paxton will throw a simulated game this week as opposed to pitching in a Cactus League contest.

Fantasy Impact

Paxton is seeking to sort out some of his secondary pitches in a more controlled environment. The southpaw remains healthy, though, which is the most important thing for him right now.

Mariners LHP James Paxton threw his first bullpen on Saturday.

Fantasy Impact

The 32-year-old returned to the Mariners on a one-year deal this offseason. Paxton was limited to just five starts last season and his stock is down following the injury-riddled campaign. He could make for an interesting late-round flyer if he shows that he's healthy throughout the spring.

According to Jeff Passan, James Paxton agreed to a one-year deal worth $8.5 million with the Seattle Mariners. He is returning back to his former team.

Fantasy Impact

Outside of 2020, James Paxton pitched well with an ERA under 4.00 for his entire career. In 2020, Paxton struggled and dealt with a forearm injury, which is worrisome. He finished with a 6.64 ERA, 1.48 WHIP, 28.9% K%, and 7.8% BB%. Throughout his career, Paxton boasts a 3.58 ERA, 1.21 WHIP, a 26.5 K%, and 7.4% BB%. Assuming he's healthy, expect his NFBC ADP of 267 to jump up easily inside the top 200 picks.

Andy Martino of SNY reports free agent LHP James Paxton is looking for "more than $11 million" this season.

Fantasy Impact

That's what Corey Kluber got from the Yankees earlier this offseason. Paxton remains unsigned with spring training set to open within a couple of weeks, and perhaps he'll need to lower his asking price to get a deal done soon. Perennially struggling with health issues, Paxton pitched just 20 1/3 innings in 2020.

Mark Feinsand of Fansided is reporting that the Phillies and Cardinals are "actively looking at free agent starting pitchers," which includes James Paxton along with Taijuan Walker and Jake Odorizzi.

Fantasy Impact

Feinsand also noted that neither team is likely to go after Trevor Bauer and that Paxton, along with the others, would headline the top remaining available starting pitchers after Bauer. Paxton has now been linked to the Phillies, Cardinals, and Blue Jays. Any of the three teams would be a good fit for the big left-hander, who is coming off a poor showing in 2020 when he posted a 6.64 ERA over five starts with the Yankees. Spring training is right around the corner so we can expect to see all of these pitchers find a home very soon.