Madison Bumgarner, the seasoned pitcher who last took the mound in April when the Arizona Diamondbacks released him, may be contemplating a return to the game.
According to a report by Bob Nightengale in USA Today, Bumgarner has confided in friends about his deliberation on a potential comeback this summer.
“Former World Series hero Madison Bumgarner, who was released last April and is still earning $14 million from the Arizona Diamondbacks this season, told friends that he’s contemplating a potential return this summer,” Nightengale wrote.
Despite his absence from the field, Bumgarner is set to receive his contractual earnings of $14 million from the Diamondbacks in 2024.
His last full season in 2022 saw Bumgarner make 30 starts, accumulating 112 strikeouts and a 4.88 ERA over 158.2 innings pitched.
However, Bumgarner’s stint with the Diamondbacks took a sharp turn for the worse in the 2023 season. Enduring a tough start, he surrendered 25 hits, 20 runs, and registered a staggering 10.26 ERA across just four starts spanning 16.2 innings.
Consequently, the Diamondbacks made the decision to release him, incurring a $34 million expense over two years, deeming it a necessary step given his performance struggles.
At 34 years old, Bumgarner still holds potential for contributions on the field if a team is willing to take a chance on him. With a career that boasts three World Series championships, he could offer valuable veteran leadership to a youthful roster aiming for postseason success.
Even if Bumgarner finds himself unsigned by Opening Day, there remains a possibility of him securing a contract at some point during the season.
