St. Louis Cardinals have completed the signing of free agent reliever Andrew Miller, the team confirmed on Friday morning. The 33-year-old All-Star reportedly inked a two-year deal that is worth around $25 million.
Miller will also have the opportunity to bank $12 million in 2021 if he decides to stay in St. Louis, or $2.5 million if he chooses a buyout.
In order to make room for Andrew Miller on their roster, the Cardinals decided to designate right-hander Ryan Meisinger for assignment.
The #STLCards have agreed to terms with free-agent left-handed relief pitcher Andrew Miller on a two-year (2019-20) deal with a vesting option for the 2021 season. #TimeToFly pic.twitter.com/2v6rfivKpq
— St. Louis Cardinals (@Cardinals) December 21, 2018
“One of our stated goals this off-season was to improve our bullpen,” – said John Mozeliak, the Cardinals’ president of baseball operations, in a statement. “Andrew Miller is one of the premier relievers in the Major Leagues, and his addition certainly strengthens our bullpen.“
Mozeliak isn’t just saying this to accommodate his team’s newest acquisition since there is a lot of truth in his words. Andrew Miller, who spent the last three years with Cleveland Indians, has arguably been the best reliever in MLB in the past couple of season when he was healthy.
Miller finished the 2018 season boosting 4.24 ERA alongside 45 strikeouts, 10 holds and 2 saves.
During his MLB career, Andrew Miller played for several other teams including Detroit Tigers, Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees. He won the World Series in 2013 with the Red Sox, while managing to collect a number of other honors and accolades including two All-Star appearances, ALCS MVP award and AL Reliever of the Year.
Miller’s career stats include 49-48 record, 3.98 ERA, 853 strikeouts, and 53 saves.
