In 2014, a starter by the name of Jarrod Parker was suppose to be the Oakland Athletics Opening Day pitcher. After a series of unfortunate events and numerous elbow injuries, Parker has since been on the disabled list for two full seasons. Even though his health status for the 2016 season is still slightly unclear, the A’s decided to take a chance on Parker and agreed to a $850,000 deal with him in order to avoid arbitration. It must be noted that only $425,000 is guaranteed.
Even though Parker has undergone two Tommy John surgeries and incurred an elbow fracture, he only has three years of MLB experience under his belt.