The St. Louis Cardinals took action by designating Erick Fedde for assignment, a decision anticipated for weeks but delayed by the front office. This move now allows Fedde to be claimed or signed by any team across the league, making him a potential option for clubs seeking pitching depth.
Giants Consider Taking a Chance on Fedde’s Comeback
Michael Brauner from San Francisco Giants OnSi noted the Giants as a possible destination for Fedde, who has struggled significantly this season. Brauner pointed out that Fedde’s recent performance, marked by a 13.50 ERA and 2.49 WHIP over his last five starts, has been disappointing. However, Fedde’s strong showing last year, with a 3.30 ERA over 31 starts and a 1.162 WHIP along with a notable bWAR of 5.6, suggests he still has potential.
Potential Reasons Behind Fedde’s Decline and Possible Improvement
According to Brauner, Fedde’s diminished form might stem from mechanical issues that could be corrected with new coaching. While immediate improvement to ace status is unlikely, there is a reasonable expectation for Fedde to contribute as a back-end rotation pitcher and provide valuable depth. A fresh start with a different coaching staff could be key to unlocking his performance again.
San Francisco Giants’ Urgent Need for Pitching Depth
The Giants have limited pitching options beyond their top starters as they strive to compete against the division-leading Los Angeles Dodgers in the National League West. Adding Fedde could offer a low-risk opportunity to bolster their rotation. If Fedde struggles in brief appearances, the Giants could quickly move on, but if he stabilizes, he may add crucial innings to their pitching staff during the season’s closing stages.
Implications for the Giants and Fedde’s Career Moving Forward
The Giants are in a position where taking a chance on a pitcher like Fedde makes sense given their pressing needs. For Fedde, signing with San Francisco presents a chance to revive his career after a difficult run. A successful turnaround could help the Giants improve their standing and provide Fedde with a new path forward as he attempts to regain his earlier success.
“The 13.50 ERA and 2.49 WHIP over the last five starts are to blame here as Fedde has hit rock bottom. Perhaps though it’s maybe a change of scenery that’s needed here,” —Michael Brauner, San Francisco Giants OnSi
“While it may feel like it is, it’s not this distant memory, the last time he was able to pitch at a high level, so perhaps there’s a mechanical issue that could be solved by a fresh coaching staff. Fedde is not going to arrive to a new club and immediately become an ace again, however he absolutely could be capable of contributing to the back end of a rotation and providing depth.” —Michael Brauner, San Francisco Giants OnSi
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Erick Fedde good?
A. Fedde, who is 32 years old, has won 3 and lost 10 games with a 5.22 ERA in 20 starts this season. This is his second year with the Cardinals. He’s finishing the last year of a two-year, $15 million contract with them. In his career, Fedde has a record of 33 wins and 52 losses, with a 4.87 ERA over 153 games. He has played for the Washington Nationals from 2017 to 2022, the Chicago White Sox in 2024, and the Cardinals.
Q. Is Erick Fedde a starter?
A. St. Louis has decided to keep Erick Fedde in the starting pitcher lineup as the trade deadline approaches. Meanwhile, Michael McGreevy still does not have a regular spot with the team.
Q. Is Erick Fedde a good pitcher?
A. In 2021, he reached personal bests in almost every area. He started the season strong, achieving a 4-3 record, a 2.54 ERA, 48 strikeouts, and holding opponents to a .182 average across nine games from April 12 to June 18. During this time, he also maintained a personal record of 21 consecutive scoreless innings from May 11 to June 23, marking it as his longest streak.