Because performance and the market determine finances, players looking for more than a one-season contract must impress general managers like Matt Klentak of the Philadelphia Phillies.
Currency Crossroads:
Some occupations depending on accomplishments do not have value-oriented dollars; they rely on negotiations for their compensation.
When 2017 ends, GMs will bargain with two types of free agents. The first is the aging veteran with compiled stats for his next contract, while the other wants a multi-campaign agreement. On the Phillies, however, four athletes could earn three-year deals if they record solid numbers.
In the second season of a two-year contract, Pat Neshek must have a solid four months to attract contenders in July and a strong finish to draw interest for another two-campaign signing. He has enjoyed good numbers for the last five summers and good health for the most recent three. However, one rub to a two-year deal is his age: 36.
In the front office’s view, they will only be guaranteeing one season or will ink another battle-tested reliever. Money-wise, Neshek is making $6.5 million to Joaquin Benoit‘s $7.5 million, but neither will field a QO (qualifying offer). And Klentak calculates a fifty-fifty chance of success with two signings, which means one will be a solid roster addition. But two things to consider are why Klentak acquired them and who – maybe, Sean Burnett – can replace them?
Because Benoit is nearing 40, contract opportunities for more than a single 162 are remote. Another Methuselah? Lately, some pitchers seem to be defying the “calendar.” That stated, he’s had seven consecutive summers of durability and productivity.
From Frenchy’s Tiki Pavillion, your eyes take in the lush grass and the crowd: new customers, retirees and regulars. And you feel the hope for a winning 2017 despite the windblown fly balls. And while some players get their running in, hurlers fire fastballs in the bullpen that pop a catcher’s mitt. During the game, however, every pitch counts for hopefuls – like Burnett – who have a shot to make the 25-man roster.