Coming into 2019, Nick Anderson was not a household name. The righty was traded from Minnesota to Miami in the offseason in a move that barely made headlines. The 29-year-old, however, has been more than just a depth piece so far. Since being dealt to Tampa Bay at the trade deadline, the former Marlin has been the best reliever in baseball. Although the 2019 season is in its final stretch, Anderson is making it one he may never forget.
In 40 games for Miami, Anderson went 2-4 with an ERA of 3.92. Although his ERA was high, Anderson was a victim of bad luck. He owned an impressive strikeout rate in 43.2 innings of work as he had 69 punch-outs. The former 32nd-round pick was also able to hold opponents to a .222 batting average.
Anderson’s performance made him a coveted piece at the deadline as teams looked to upgrade their bullpens. The Marlins found a match in their fellow Florida team and, along with Trevor Richards, dealt Anderson to the Rays for Ryne Stanek and Jesus Sanchez. Although Stanek has performed well for his new team, Anderson has taken his game to another level.
In 10 appearances for Tampa Bay, the former Marlin has yet to allow an earned run. In eight innings of work, he has only allowed four hits while striking out 18 batters. So far in his career as a Ray, Anderson has multiple strikeouts in all of his appearances but three. Like Anderson did in Miami, he has shown excellent control and has yet to walk a batter.
Since being dealt to a contender, Anderson has been the hottest reliever in baseball. After holding opponents to a .243 average in July, that has dropped to .115 so far in August. He is also on pace to strike out over 100 batters in just his first season in the majors. As the Rays make their playoff push, their newest addition has been almost unhittable.
With the trade deadline now a month in the rearview mirror, the Rays have come away winners. While other relievers dealt such as Mark Melancon, Shane Green, and Sergio Romo have struggled, Anderson has thrived. He has made the transition to a new team seem effortless at a critical point of the season.
When the Rays acquired the Minnesota native, their eyes were not only set on this season. Although Anderson is 29, he is only a rookie and is under club control through 2024. As the Rays look to contend in the AL East for years to come, Anderson will be an important piece.
Since the Rays are known for having a low payroll, they must hit on every trade. Although they gave up a decent haul for Anderson, he has so far proven to be worth it. If he can continue his recent performance, then it may just be the best move of the deadline.
The ending to the Rays’ season has yet to be written, but Anderson will play a big part in what could be a special ending.
