August 15, 2007
Money for Nothing?
The Yankees just signed Andrew Brackman, their first round pick. They're paying a lot of money for someone who might be hurt, a $3.3 million bonus:
However, that's the low-end guarantee. Even though Brackman might need elbow surgery-he's in Birmingham, Ala., right now to see Dr. James Andrews-the Yankees have signed him to a deal that could be worth up to $13 million when escalator clauses and team options are included.
It's a significant contract for the 6-foot-10 pitcher and Boras Corporation client, who went 6-4, 3.81 for the Wolfpack this spring in a career-high 78 innings. Brackman played basketball and baseball his first two seasons at N.C. State, limiting him to 71 innings combined. He appeared to wear down under the heavier workload this spring, withering down the stretch. However, at his best, Brackman had some of the best stuff and athleticism of any pitcher in the draft, touching 99 mph at times with his fastball and flashing a plus spike curveball.
Time will tell if this is a good move or not.
Posted by David Pinto at
04:47 PM
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It won't be the worst $3Million spent this year and it's not going to break the Yankees' bank so why not take the chance?
Honestly, 4.5 million guaranteed is nothing to the Yankee's. They're taking a risk, but it's the price of an average middle reliever for a chance at an 'ace.' When he's healthy he throws 100mph. It's really a no brainer for the Yankees.
It's a no brainer? Who cares about the money? What other players, healthy mind you, were still on the board? You both act as though there is no opportunity cost; Yankee history shows it is all opportunity cost. After a long dry spell the organization has started hitting paydirt in the draft. Thank God, it seems nobody in the front office has the slighest ability to judge MLB free agent talent, particularly in the pitching arena.