Thursday, December 9, 2010

Carl Crawford Dines and Dashes

The Boston Red Sox announced this morning another big-time move this offseason with the acquisition of Carl Crawford for seven years and $142 million.  Yet, just last night, it was reported that Carl Crawford was having dinner with Yankee executives.  So, let me get this straight - the man knew he was going to sign a deal in the morning that would pay him slightly north of $20 million, but he still felt the urge to scrub a free meal from the Yankees.  Or is it just that enjoyable to share a romantic meal with Brian Cashman on a Wednesday night?  Whatever the case, Brian Cashman learned a valuable lesson - that no free agent signs with Yankees because of the pinstripes or the majesty of Yankee Stadium. Rather, they sign with the Yankees because the Steinbrenner's can write the fattest paycheck.

Brian Cashman's last minute pitch didn't work and he couldn't lure Crawford to New York despite the fact that the Yankees have such a rich history with 26 world championships.  It was stunning to see the Yankees reign in the purse strings and not splurge for the best offensive free agent in this year's class.  Cashman must have been as shocked as anyone to learn about Boston's obnoxious offer for a player that is already 29 years old.  There is zero chance that Carl Crawford will have the same wheels at 35, 36, and 37 years old that he has in his late twenties.  The Red Sox got such a scare from missing the postseason last year that they didn't mind overpaying for a player that won't be worth $20 million per year in the second half of his contract.

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