MLB Contract Options

[EVIL~! alkeiper 0]

While the Playoffs continue, teams out of contention must decide whether to exercise options on players for next season. Several players have "team options" on their deals, and its up to the team to decide. Here are some of the notables so far...

 

-The Cleveland Indians declined to exercise Omar Vizquel's option, making him a free agent. This is not a surprise, as the Indians have a 22 year old shortstop who also happened to win the International League MVP Award. Vizquel has been a nice player for the Indians, but their money is best spent elsewhere.

 

-The Milwaukee Brewers declined the option on Craig Counsell. I wasn't sure where the Brewers would go with the option, but given Counsell's weak .315 slugging percentage, it is hardly a surprise. Counsell does post decent OBPs, has some speed, and is a capable defender. He could make a very useful utility infielder. He'd certainly be better than "Super" Joe McEwing.

 

-The Philadelphia Phillies exercised their option on Billy Wagner. Easy decision there. Wagner's injury woes nonwithstanding, he post a nearly 10:1 K/BB ratio this season. Only one year has Wagner posted an ERA less than 40% better than the league average. Wagner gives the Phillies one of the best closers in baseball.

 

-Felix Rodriguez exercised his player option with the Phillies. Rodriguez makes $5 million next year. I think that is high, but it is not an unreasonable burden, and he is certainly a useful reliever. Wagner and Rodriguez give the Phillies a good foundation for their bullpen next season.

[the max 0]

Success seems to find Counsell. He won titles in Florida and Arizona, playing integral parts in both teams winning it all. He's a pretty good pick up for a team that is looking to make a playoff run...maybe Cleveland?

[Brett Favre 0]

Teams like the Cubs (Obviously if they don't resign Nomar), Giants, and maybe the Angels should take a look at Vizquel. He'd fit well with the Cubs, who could use his defense, and a switch hitter in their lineup.

[Big McLargeHuge 0]

Al, you're a Phils fan. What did you think of Felix?

[EVIL~! alkeiper 0]

Success seems to find Counsell. He won titles in Florida and Arizona, playing integral parts in both teams winning it all. He's a pretty good pick up for a team that is looking to make a playoff run...maybe Cleveland?

 

Cleveland picked up Aaron Boone, so they probably wouldn't need Counsell. I think Counsell would fit in well with the Yankees, actually. There are a few other teams who could use him.

 

Teams like the Cubs (Obviously if they don't resign Nomar), Giants, and maybe the Angels should take a look at Vizquel. He'd fit well with the Cubs, who could use his defense, and a switch hitter in their lineup.

 

Vizquel would make a good one year solution for a team without an obvious player in that spot, or a weakness there. The Marlins could use Vizquel, actually. There are alot of shortstops out there, so it'll be interesting to see how it shakes out.

 

Al, you're a Phils fan. What did you think of Felix?

 

I was pleased. He's got a good track record, he pitched well in Philly. He's a fairly good pitcher.

[therealworldschampion 0]

All the Phils need now is an actual manager that can use the bullpen correctly.

 

I heard Fregosi was going to be interviewed, WHY are they bringing him back?

[EVIL~! alkeiper 0]

-The Oakland Athletics declined Jermaine Dye's $14 Million option. Apparently Nick Swisher is a better option, and will cost $13.7 Million less. No surprise there at all. The Athletics also cut loose Chris Hammond. Hammond pitched well last year, and as a lefty he'll be a hot commodity.

 

-The Minnesota Twins declined Christian Guzman's $5.25 million contract, making him a free agent. The Twins will likely go with Nick Punto next season, depending on what's on the market. Guzman adds another shortstop to an already crowded position this offseason.