Quote:
Originally Posted by Chiefspants
We would have to make an offer to receive compensation if he leaves, right? (Paging Duncan)
|
You have to make a "qualifying" offer, which is a contract of at least one year for at least a set amount based on average contracts of other FA pitchers or some such (kind of like the franchise tag).
If you don't make the offer, you don't get compensation for the pitcher. If no one signs the pitcher before the MLB drat, you don't get compensation.
I'd be hesitant to offer Santana a long-term deal because of his age, his tendency to have terrible years, and his heavy reliance on his slider. But he's been damn good for KC and the trade has worked out perfectly.
If they stay in it, you keep him. You will need him down the stretch and would like to line up Shields and Santana 1-2 in a potential playoff series.
Quote:
Originally Posted by mr. tegu
I remember all offseason discussing potential pitchers. I believe Duncan correctly assessed that Santana's fastball being a little low in speed was his problem. I do t recall the why but I am certainly glad it is fixed. If we do play our way into serious contention there is no way we can trade him. The chemistry on the pitching staff is excellent right now.
|
What's crazy is that Santana's AVG FB velocity is up, but only slightly (0.2 MPH). I think the main difference is that his HR/FB rate was crazily high last year.
He's locating better and playing in front of a tremendous run-prevention defense. He does seem to be working in the change and two-seam fastball more, but not a HUGE change.