Indians sign Kerry Wood for two years, $20.5MM, with a $11MM option for 2011 which will vest if he finishes 55 games in either 2009 or 2010.
Analysis: Szymborski, Law, Seidman.
The option only becomes a real burden if he meets the requirement this year, and then breaks down in 2010. Which is possible, but probably not much of a concern.
If this doesn't prove that it's a buyer's market for closers, I don't know what does. Not even in the terms of the contract, but just from the fact that the Indians -- who never sign anyone -- signed a *proven closer*.
As an Indians fan I'm excited, if only because they'll have someone competent to finish out games, rather than some clown throwing 83.
Considering the modest length of the contract, there really are an incredible number of unknowns. How injury prone is he? How relevant is his injury history as a starter at this point? Can he replicate anything close to last season's 84:18 K:BB ratio? I have no idea.
4 comments:
Being a die hard Twins fan, it doesn't make me happy to see the Tigers and Indians making big moves this off-season. I definitely agree with this move for Cleveland. Even though I don't agree he is worth remotely close to what he got, the KRod deal makes this one look all the sweeter. I'll give it a 7.
Survivor update? Philly, denver, san fran or new orleans. Got to have some help.
Working on it now.
I think Indians fans should be excited as it's a great signing. Last year was the beginning of a re-emergence for Wood. He'll be a top closer in his 30's.
As far as being injury prone, it's less of a concern with him at closer. The 2 yr/3rd Option contract should not be looked at as a problem because he'll blow up, but instead it fails to take advantage of the long term you can attain him for at what will be considered a low price.
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