The American League champions have the ability to void the final season of the deal "under certain conditions" like if Beltre is injured or starts to suck. Besides, six years is a pretty big commitment for a guy who will turn 32 this April.
The free agent third baseman turned down his $10 million player option to stick with the Boston Red Sox this offseason. Beltre, who batted .321 with 28 homers, 49 doubles, and 102 RBI made the All-Star team for the first time in his 13-year career last season, oddly enough.
This signing only enhances the Rangers' shot at repeating their AL West title, and solidifies the fact that Vladimir Guerrero will not be returning to the team, as Michael Young will be forced to move to the designated hitter's spot.
All things considered, this is a decent move in the short term: Beltre is more or less replacing Vlad's bat and Young's glove. As long as he stays healthy.
Update: Apparently, Beltre's deal is worth only $80 million over five years, according to MLB and the player's union, who felt the need to examine his contract more closely.
[FOX Sports]
2 comments:
The Sox were smart to let him go. He'll be 38 when his contract is up and that is too damn old to play third base.
He'll be older, but who knows, maybe he'll turn into the team's designated hitter when he's too hold to play the hot corner. Or maybe they'll use him as trade bait before he gets too old.
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