Josh Willingham Looking for Three-Year Contract

We’re a few days into free agency, and Josh Willingham hasn’t wasted any time in making his intentions known.  Willingham’s agent, Matt Sosnick, told Joe Stiglich of the San Jose Mercury News that the slugger is looking for a three-year contract.  Stiglich also agreed with Oakland’s general manager Billy Beane; Willingham is unlikely to re-sign with the A’s.

Willingham picked a great year to set career highs in home runs (29) and RBI’s (98).  The 32-year-old outfielder posted a line of .246/.332/.447 in 2011 and holds a career OPS of .836.  This will be the first time Willingham hits free agency, and many expect him to become available to the open market later this week.

Sosnick said that if he had to guess, he thinks Willingham will probably “sign a three-year deal”.  The agent goes on to say that this will likely put Willingham out of Oakland’s range because of “the position the A’s are in right now”.

As far as who Willingham does decide to sign with, Sosnick says his client is likely to choose a team “in the South or Midwest”.  This would put Willingham closer to his home in Florence, AL.  Sliding into his role, Sosnick maintained the fact that “ultimately money will talk”, but that location also plays a large role in Willingham’s decision.

For more on the Athletics, be sure to check out Swingin’ A’s.