My first reaction when I heard about Ryan Howard's 2007 contract -- a $900,000 pact -- was that the Phillies low-balled their MVP slugger, a silly move that would come back to bite them when it's time to discuss a multi-year extension. But then I heard that the sides discussed a long-term deal but couldn't reach an agreement. Also, the Phillies may have offered more money as the average-annual value for a long-term deal, but Howard and agent Casey Close opted for the renewal figure of $900,000.
So, what do we make of all this?
Absolutely nothing.
Howard appears to understand that players with less than two years of major-league service have to wait their turn in baseball's salary structure. Until they become arbitration-eligible, they don't often get a contract extension. He'll get his turn, possibly as early as before next season. And when the time comes, assuming Howard's production doesn't slip, the Phillies will be more than willing to resume talks on a contract extension.
And, don't forget: Howard can't become a free agent until after the 2011 season. So, regardless of any hurt feelings or animosity that may or may not have been created by this negotiation (and Howard's feelings don't hurt easily), he'll be with the Phillies for several more years.
2 comments:
Great work on the blog.
Why would Howard's camp have opted for the lower renewal figure? Any idea?
He had a great year (1). Let's see how he does this year.
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