Former Phillies All-Star Signs Surprising Deal with World Series Champs

A former Philadelphia Phillies starter has signed a team-friendly deal with the reigning World Series champions Texas Rangers.

After months of remaining on the MLB free agent market, former Philadelphia Phillies starter Michael Lorenzen has a new home. 

The righty signed a one-year, $4.5 million deal with the Texas Rangers, the reigning World Series champions, late Wednesday evening according to The Athletic. The deal also includes up to $2.5 million in incentives. 

Lorenzen had reportedly turned down multiple offers in the $4-5 million range all winter but after having waited out his market, the Rangers were able to swoop in and get Lorenzen on a team-friendly deal. 

Among his accolades, Lorenzen earned his first MLB All-Star nod in 2023 before being traded to the Phillies from the Detroit Tigers. Shortly after arriving in Philly, Lorenzen threw a no-hitter against the Washington Nationals on Aug. 9. 

The righty made the transition from the bullpen to the rotation just two seasons ago and some questions remain about his ability to remain in that role. While Lorenzen was able to pitch 153.0 innings last season, he did see a considerable drop-off in performance down the stretch.

Texas will likely use him in the rotation to begin the season as they await the return of Jacob deGrom and Max Scherzer, both of whom are due to be back later in the summer. 

Upon their return, Lorenzen could slide to the bullpen where he spent the majority of his career. 

Philadelphia decided not to re-sign Lorenzen despite the cheap price tag and will instead roll into the season with the rotation already set.