A Phillies’ fit by popular demand

Just mentioning his name to a Phillies fan receives over 90 percent approval guaranteed, but general manager Matt Klentak won’t make an offer for over three summers unless it’s a bargain.

The Forecast:

While national writers compartmentalize organizations into market size, contenders, also-rans and rebuilding clubs, they have frequently listed the Philadelphia Phillies as potential landing spots for free-agent pitchers. Yes, the team has money and needs, but when and why did restructuring end?

"IN OTHER WORDS: “Are you placing enough interesting, freakish, long shot, weirdo bets?” – Tom Peters"

With February around the corner, the impasse is still present for top unsigned moundsmen and interested franchises. But one reason doesn’t suit all situations except for conflicting strategies.

For instance, players and their representatives want to maximize their earning potential, while some contending organizations wish to reset the percentage due for exceeding the luxury tax by dropping below the $197 million threshold for 2018. And other franchises prefer offering contracts with a higher AAV (average annual value) for three campaigns instead of five.

To illustrate, Klentak inked Carlos Santana for $60 million over three seasons with a club option instead of $75 million over five years: $15 million less of a financial commitment. In other words, the GM was more comfortable with a $20 million AAV, and Santana was easier to sign. Ergo, strategy.

On the other hand, some clubs may be trying to keep the costs of superstars down. Yes, $300 million or more will be the minimum for three otherworldly pros: Clayton Kershaw, Manny Machado, and Bryce Harper. Are some execs holding the line on escalating salaries?

Even though many unsigned players are Scott Boras’ clients, he isn’t doing business much differently than past offseasons. But one exception is his “stay calm” mantra because some unnamed stars are reportedly panicking.

At Phillies sites, one Internet poster stated he had decided against a trade for attractive starters because the cost is prohibitive. He didn’t like the unsigned hurlers for more than two summers and wondered about overpaying for a one-campaign veteran to move in July. His question: Is such a pitcher even out there?

Apparently, some other locals believe Nick Williams, Aaron Altherr or Cesar Hernandez are equal to in-demand starters: Marcus Stroman and Chris Archer. But the Toronto Blue Jays will only listen, while the Tampa Bay Rays want a strong multi-prospect package including Scott Kingery or Sixto Sanchez. Ergo, a lopsided swap.