Tom Tango has an interesting blog entry about Jeff Kent…
http://www.insidethebook.com/ee/index.php/site/article/sabermetric_neophytes_meet_jeff_kent/
He argues the point that there is no longer reason to separate 2nd baseman vs 3rd baseman… and makes the larger point that Kent’s offensive production should award him consideration to the HOF, but that he gets no additional credit for being a middle-infielder.
There is an existing argument which states that Roberts game is based on speed, and that at age 31, there are concerns that his game greatly diminishes in short-order. That even a 3 year extension through the 2012 season might be too much, and that a 4 year deal through 2013 might come-back to hurt you.
However, can you extrapolate Mr. Tango’s argument further, and say that Roberts should not be judged based on the history of previous 2nd baseman?
I understand the worries about extending Roberts, but I maintain that it should be done if you want to contend in the 2010, and 2011 seasons.
With Roberts now an additional year older, and one less year off of his contract – there is no reason to believe you will be able to obtain more in trade for him, than you were offered last year.
If you were unwilling to take those packages last year, are you going to accept less now?
You could let Roberts play out 2009 without an extension, and take the compensation draft-pick, but I find that scenario even less appealing vs. taking less in trade.
After the 2009 season, you are going to have to replace Huff at 1st, Mora at 3rd, and continue to want to obtain a long-term option at SS.
I think moving Roberts, and having to replace the entire INF is too much to ask.
Personally, I would have a hard time giving Roberts 4 years. I would want to pay more over 3 yrs… maybe 3yrs $39M, vs giving the 4th year.
Another option could be ripping up the current 2009 contract, and giving 4 years that way.
Mr. Tango is one of the authors of The Book: Playing the Percentages in Baseball, and has recently been hired by the Seattle Mariners as statistical analysis consultant.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tom_Tango
Owner
Chris Stoner founded Baltimore Sports and Life in 2009. He has appeared as a radio guest with 1090 WBAL, 105.7 The Fan, CBS 1300, Q1370, WOYK 1350, WKAV 1400, and WNST 1570. He has also been interviewed by The Baltimore Sun, Baltimore Business Journal, and PressBox (TV). As Owner, his responsibilities include serving as the Managing Editor, Publicist, & Sales Director.