Right-hander Michael Lorenzen had a rollercoaster of a season in 2023, showcasing both his potential and his struggles. Starting with the Detroit Tigers, Lorenzen made the American League All-Star team after posting a 3.58 ERA and a 5-7 record. However, he was later traded to the Philadelphia Phillies at the deadline to bolster their rotation.
Lorenzen made an immediate impact with the Phillies, throwing a no-hitter in his Philadelphia home debut. This remarkable achievement was a highlight in his career, but unfortunately, his success was short-lived. Following the no-hitter, Lorenzen struggled with a 7.96 ERA in his next five starts and was eventually moved to the bullpen.
Despite his ups and downs, Lorenzen’s overall performance in the 2023 season was solid, finishing with a combined 9-9 record, a 4.18 ERA, and 111 strikeouts between the Tigers and the Phillies. Throughout his nine seasons in the MLB, Lorenzen has shown versatility, transitioning from a reliever for the Cincinnati Reds to a starter for the Tigers and Los Angeles Angels.
One unique aspect of Lorenzen’s game is his prowess at the plate. Despite being a pitcher, he has proven to be a threat with the bat, tallying 7 home runs, 24 RBIs, and a .233 batting average in 133 at-bats. This versatility sets him apart from other pitchers in the league and adds to his value as a player.
With his recent one-year deal with the Texas Rangers, Lorenzen has the opportunity to start fresh and make an impact with a new team. The $4.5 million guaranteed deal, with a potential max of $7 million with incentives, provides him with the motivation to continue improving and contributing on the mound.
Michael Lorenzen’s journey in the MLB has been a series of highs and lows, showcasing his resilience and determination as a player. As he embarks on a new chapter with the Rangers, it will be interesting to see how he adapts to the challenges and opportunities that come his way.
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