Jose Quintana has been one of the most coveted trade candidates on the market this offseason. Any team in need of front-line starting pitching could afford Quintana’s modest $7 million salary in 2017. That same team would have control of the ace through 2020.
Through five MLB seasons, Quintana has appeared in 154 games and 951 innings; all with the White Sox. He holds a career 46-46 record with a 3.41 ERA and a 781/244 K/BB ratio. Quintana was voted to his first All Star Game in 2016.
The White Sox ace has been one of the most consistent pitchers in the major leagues. He has thrown atleast 200 innings, holding a sub 3.60 ERA the past four seasons.
Any team acquiring Quintana is getting one of the best pitchers in the MLB at a discounted rate. He immediately improves any pitching staff and adds a consistent options towards the top of their rotation. Any team planning on contending could use a pitcher like Quintana for their future playoff push.
For a while it seemed as if Quintana’s future trade destination would be the Houston Astros, Pittsburgh Pirates or New York Yankees.
The Astros and Pirates both seemed like logical landing spots for Quintana. Both Houston and Pittsburgh are in need of front-line starting pitching, and both have the farm system to get a deal done.
While it seems like it would be a two horse race for Quintana’s services, a new report states that a former favorite has dropped out of the pursuit.
