Jacob Webb, coming off an impressive two-year stint in Baltimore, is sure to make an impact for whichever team signs him.
Reliable Orioles Reliever Hits Free Agency
After being claimed off waivers by the Orioles in the late part of the 2023 season, Webb made an immediate impact. During his two seasons in Baltimore, Webb was a consistently reliable bullpen piece who got key outs when the Orioles needed them. Now, Webb, only 25, will hit the free agent market looking to find a home. The Orioles non-tendered Webb, making him a free agent, but a reunion is still a possibility.
Webb’s Journey To Baltimore
Jacob Webb’s career began in 2019 while playing for the Atlanta Braves. There, Webb spent parts of three seasons and earned a World Series ring in 2021 after appearing in 34 regular season games, and even 2 playoff games. Then, in 2022, Webb did not make an MLB appearance. So, Webb signed a minor league deal with the Angels, hoping to make the roster. Webb did make the roster and pitched in 34 games before being DFA’d over halfway through the 2023 season. That is when the Orioles swooped in, claimed Webb, and gave him a spot in the bullpen.
Jacob Webb As An Oriole
As an Oriole, Webb was an exceptional pitcher.
In 2023, Webb made an immediate impact. He started his career as an Oriole with 9 straight scoreless outings, which earned him a key role in the bullpen. In that spot, Webb was dominant and helped the Orioles clinch the American League East division title. In the 25 games he pitched, Webb had just a 3.27 ERA and did not give up a home run.
Following up on his impressive 2023 run was going to be tough, but Webb found a way. During the 2024 season, Webb appeared in 6o games and had just a 3.02 ERA. Webb struck out 9.2 batters per 9 innings and had a 24.5 K%. While the Orioles bullpen struggled, Webb did not and was a steady force for the Orioles.
Could Webb Return To Baltimore?
It is certainly a possibility that Webb will return to Baltimore this next season. However, the Orioles chose to let him hit the open market instead of bringing him back.
In a move that puzzled many fans, the Orioles non-tendered Webb, meaning they declined his contract for 2025 and made him a free agent. Despite how reliable he had been for them, they chose to let him walk. One reason for this could be that the Orioles think they could retain Webb for cheaper. However, it is hard to tell what relievers will earn in free agency, especially guys like Webb.
Webb was projected to make 1.7 million in 2025 before he was non-tendered, so any contract he signs will likely be around that number.
Where Else Could Jacob Webb Go?
Realistically, all 30 MLB teams could use the service of Jacob Webb. Fielding a full bullpen of reliable arms is incredibly tough, and Webb is a cheap option to help hit that goal.
Teams with playoff aspirations will most likely target Webb. One team in particular could be the Atlanta Braves. They had bullpen issues throughout 2024, and a reunion with Webb would make a lot of sense for them.
It is hard to tell where Webb will land, but he will surely make an impact wherever he goes.
Main Photo Credits: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images
