"The phrase "new market inefficiency" has become a punch line, but this may be one. Buying older starting pitchers carries much less financial risk than signing prime-age ones does. There's a projected performance gap, but only when compared to the very top of the market. I'd rather sign Greinke or Sanchez or Cliff Lee, #1 or high-#2 starters for market-level money. Once you're on the next level down, however, it's better to aim for older starters who require a shorter commitment."