There were a few converted relievers who found success moving into starting roles in 2012. Chris Sale looked like one of the best pitchers in baseball for the better part of the season, and Kris Medlen flourished after he transitioned to starting in late July. Unlike the aforementioned former relievers, Jeff Samardzija did not pitch for a contender. He pitched for the Chicago Cubs. Samardzija pitched well in 2012, but he’s not about to negotiate a long-term deal based on the potential he flashed in his first season as a starter.
The Cubs avoided arbitration with Samardzija, signing him to a one-year deal worth $2.64 million in January. Both the pitcher and the team plan on being a part of one another’s future, but “Shark” would like the Cubs to get a look at what he can do with a full season to his credit before discussing term and dollars.
