I thought Brian’s deal might turn into one the team would later regret, sort like what happened this season with Melvin Mora that served as a case of buyer’s remorse.
When everything was said and done, I thought Roberts had been signed for one year too long with a contract that was a tad generous.
Obviously, there’s a good amount of time left on Roberts’ deal before it expires; however, right now, it looks like he’ll stay healthy, and he should post some very strong numbers in the years to come.
However, from what I saw in him last season, Roberts put in one his best efforts at the plate, despite the Orioles’ record. Although there were some fans that questioned his hustle and wondered where his mind was at time, he no doubt delivered time and time again offensively. Even though he’ll be 32 when the 2010 season begins, the man shows no sign of slowing down, based on his doubles record, along with his .283 average, 16 homers, 79 RBIs, a .807 OPS, and 30 stolen bases.
Based on what I saw, extending Brian may have been money well spent. Now, the rebuilding project needs to speed up, and the second baseman needs a stronger supporting case.
He’s always said that his wish was to play ‘meaningful baseball in September’, and let’s hope it happens soon.
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
The difference with Roberts’ contract is it doesn’t have an absolute no-trade clause like Mora’s (I forget the technicallities involved). Also, Roberts still has a couple good years left him, whereas Mora was given a big contract in the start of his decline.
I’m having a hard time understanding why you needed evidence this year to determine whether or not Roberts extentsion was worth it. He’s been pretty consistent since 2005 with the exception of a minor down year in 2006 because he was still recovering from in injury. Unless he has a major injury in the near future, I can’t see any kind of huge decline. At $8 million a year, I think both sides made out considering the current market. Roberts is underrated anyway. Almost any given year you could put him in as a top 5 2B man.
Also, for the Orioles to get the type of player(s) that they need, I think they’ll probably have to be more active in the trade market (again) then in free agency. Because for MacPhail to attract the the likes of Lackey, Bay, or Holliday, it’s going to take a lot more then promoting “phase 2″ of the rebuilding plan, goodwill, or promises. It’ll be more like a 5 year contract in the $100 million range. And for some reason, I don’t see that happening. And I really really really do not want to see Glaus, Brannyen, Thome or Figgins being the answer for the “big bat” we’ve been looking for this offseason. If that’s the case, MacPhail may as well resign Huff. I might except Blalock, but that would be about the extent of it. Otherwise, MacPhail will be full of shit like the other GM’s if that’s the best he can do.
Agreed, Dave.
I think I was trying to play Devil’s advocate here, but at the time of when the Brian Roberts deal was made, I’ll say that I think they gave him one year too long. I also did think his market value was a tad high (especially in comparison to the other free agents out there in ‘09). I think B-Rob is a $10 million man now.
However, Roberts has shown that’s he’s perhaps worth the money spent. He also looks healthy, and has indeed had one of his better seasons.
As for the free agents, I agree with you there. I am not impressed at all by what’s out there. I think MacPhail has to stick with the plan and let the pitching develop (and when it does — or if — keep them as long as possible). The Orioles don’t have Yankee money, but they are not Pittsburgh or a KC; however, they have be very smart.
The wrong free agent signing could hamper this franchise for a long time.
Thanks for the input.