MLB Rumors: Madison Bumgarner Considering Pitching in 2024 After Diamondbacks Exit

Andrew PetersMarch 3, 2024

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Madison Bumgarner hasn’t pitched since last April when the Arizona Diamondbacks released him, but the veteran starter could be eyeing a comeback.

Per USA Today’s Bob Nightengale, Bumgarner told friends that he’s debating a return to the mound 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.

Regardless of whether he pitches or not, Bumgarner will receive $14 million from the Diamondbacks in 2024.

In his last full season in 2022, Bumgarner recorded 30 starts, notching 112 strikeouts and a 4.88 ERA in 158.2 innings pitched.

Bumgarner’s time in Arizona came to a close after a dreadful start to the 2023 season. In four starts, he gave up 25 hits, 20 runs and recorded a 10.26 ERA through 16.2 innings pitched. The move to release Bumgarner cost the Diamondbacks $34 million across two years, but it was something they deemed necessary given his struggles.

At 34 years old, Bumgarner could still have plenty of baseball left to play if a team is willing to take a chance on him. If anything, the three-time World Series champion could provide some veteran experience to a young team looking to make a postseason push.

Even if Bumgarner remains unsigned on Opening Day, it’s possible he could land a contract at some point during the season.