The 2023 MLB season brought plenty of challenges for players across the league, and left-handed reliever Joe Jacques was no exception. The 6-foot-4, 210-pound former Boston Red Sox pitcher appeared in 23 games last year, posting a 5.06 ERA in what proved to be an inconsistent campaign. Although the Red Sox bullpen showed flashes of improvement, Jacques’ struggles ultimately resulted in his exit from Seattle after a brief stint there.
End of a Challenging Chapter
Jacques’ season took a sharp turn when he was designated for assignment on September 3, removing him from the Mariners’ 40-man roster. Despite being traded from the Los Angeles Dodgers earlier in June, he never made a big-league appearance in 2024. With Seattle preparing for a playoff push, Jacques was left on the outside looking in.
During his time in Boston, Jacques provided valuable depth during a tough season that ended with a 78-84 record. His success in Triple-A Worcester — where he logged 39 innings and a 2.54 ERA — caught the attention of the Arizona Diamondbacks, who claimed him off waivers the following spring. However, his time in the majors afterward was brief and bumpy; across three innings with two teams, he allowed three runs, leading to a 6.02 ERA at the Triple-A level this year.
Looking Ahead
Now entering free agency, Jacques is eager to reignite his career and prove he still belongs in the big leagues. Though a minor-league deal remains the most likely path forward, earning another major-league opportunity could be an uphill battle. With Boston already stacked with left-handed bullpen arms, a reunion seems unlikely.
As Jacques looks toward the future, the next few months could define the trajectory of his career. Armed with perseverance and a renewed focus, he’ll aim to catch on with a team willing to bet on his upside — and perhaps, write a comeback story worth remembering.
