Joe Jacques Parts Ways with Mariners in Pursuit of MLB Revival
The former Red Sox pitcher seeks new opportunities after a challenging tenure
In a move signaling a fresh start, Joe Jacques has severed ties with the Seattle Mariners, marking a pivotal moment in his quest to reinvigorate his Major League Baseball career. The left-handed reliever, once a promising asset for the Boston Red Sox, saw his performance falter during the 2023 season, which many fans would prefer to forget.
A Challenging Season with the Mariners
Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 210 pounds, Jacques made 23 appearances for the Red Sox, but his time on the mound was marred by a 5.06 ERA. After a tumultuous season, he found himself navigating a challenging path, having been shuffled through three teams. Ultimately, he was outrighted off the Mariners’ 40-man roster, a move that prompted the 30-year-old to explore free agency in search of a more favorable opportunity.
Seeking New Horizons
On April 18, Jacques officially declared for free agency, concluding a stint that began with promise but ended without a single Major League appearance in 2024. After being designated for assignment on September 3, he was left without a chance to contribute to the playoff-bound Mariners or the Los Angeles Dodgers, who had acquired him in June. Despite being eligible for the postseason roster, Jacques never stepped onto the field in a major league game this season.
In Boston, he provided essential depth for a Red Sox squad that finished with a disappointing 78-84 record. During his time with Triple-A Worcester, Jacques demonstrated his potential, throwing 39 innings with a commendable 2.54 ERA. His performance there earned him a waiver claim from the Arizona Diamondbacks the following April, but his tenure in the majors was brief. He struggled in his last major league appearances, allowing three runs in three innings across stints with both the Red Sox and the Diamondbacks.
The Road Ahead
As Jacques looks to the future, the journey may prove challenging. His performance in Triple-A this season further complicates his search for a new club, as he posted a 6.02 ERA. The Red Sox, already stocked with left-handed relievers, are unlikely to be interested in rekindling their relationship with Jacques at this juncture.
Now, as a free agent, Jacques is free to sign a minor-league deal with any team. However, whether he will find a new opportunity remains uncertain. The coming weeks will be crucial as he seeks to reestablish himself in the competitive landscape of professional baseball.
