O's cooling on Garland
Just yesterday, there was talk that the O's were one of three legitimate suitors for free agent pitcher Jon Garland, but that trail has gone cold in a hurry. The reason: Garland is believed to be seeking a multi-year contract worth $13 million per year and the Orioles are not willing to spend that kind of money on him.
Garland is a solid right-hander who has had two 18-win seasons in his career. But he was 10-13 for the White Sox in 2007 and his 14-8 record with the Angels this past year was tempered by a 4.90 ERA and the worst WHIP (1.505) of his seven full seasons as a major league starting pitcher.
Credit where it's due: Much of the information and breaking news that is showing up here during these winter meetings is acquired in collaboration with Sun Orioles beat writer Jeff Zrebiec, who's working the hallways at the Bellagio about 25 hours a day.
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Comments
Good call O's. 13 million can be spent in many ways, most of which will bring more value than Jon Garland.
Posted by: Sam | December 9, 2008 3:56 PM
I can think of better ways for the O's to spend $13m per year than Jon Garland. I'm glad to hear them willing to take a pass!
Posted by: Dan N | December 9, 2008 4:07 PM
I'm the glad the O's are showing self-control. He's not worth that kind of contract.
Posted by: Shawn (Lincoln, NE) | December 9, 2008 4:09 PM
Are there any indications that the other two suitors for Garland are willing to go anywhere close to 13 million per year?
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Pete's reply: Don't know that.
Posted by: Grant | December 9, 2008 4:11 PM
If the Orioles can't sign Burnett, Lowe type of pitchers, then they should look at Pavano, who has been resting for four years, and probably is eager to pitch now. An incentive-laden contract could do the trick.
In order to sign Teixiera, the Orioles need to show him that they are ready to contend in AL East, by signing another top free agent.
Posted by: Sudhir | December 9, 2008 4:14 PM
Any word on these mid-level prospects? Probably pitchers huh?
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Pete's reply: Not necessarily.
Posted by: Marty | December 9, 2008 4:16 PM
This is good news. The Orioles should not be pursuing Garland, especially not at $13/year. That's outrageous money for his skill set.
Hope you're having fun.
Posted by: Brian | December 9, 2008 4:27 PM
Any chance if the Cubs arent able to complete the deal for Peavy that we offer Roberts, Scott, and Olsen for Pie, Cedeno, and the third base prospect Vitters? I think it would be a great deal for the Os.
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Pete's reply: I guess anything is possible.
Posted by: Matt | December 9, 2008 4:29 PM
I guess anything is possible too Peter.
I thought that Garland would be a bit too rich for the Orioles. We'll have to see if anyone steps up to his asking price.
Posted by: The Mythical One | December 9, 2008 4:48 PM
thank goodness. I wasn't sold on Garland even at value prices, but $13m/per is insane. pass.
Posted by: Andrew | December 9, 2008 4:56 PM
Pete,
Nice of you to give credit to Zrebiec, but why not send him some room service. Tell the front desk, "he is standing outside of Scott Boras' room w/ his ear pressed against the door,,,you cannot miss him."
Posted by: Cereal Blogger | December 9, 2008 5:02 PM
Glad to see the O's taking a pass on Garland.
From other reports I have read, it seems that Ben Sheets can be had with a two year deal (though not sure of the numbers). If this is true, and the numbers fit, this is exactly the type of player the O's should be taking a risk with. When he's healthy, Sheets has tremendous stuff. Def. worth a hard look.
Posted by: Cal | December 9, 2008 5:06 PM
Hey Pete, why aren't you at the Belaggio, they've got arguably the best buffet in Vegas?
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Pete's reply: I am at the Bellagio, but have yet to sample the cuisine.
Posted by: CTFan | December 9, 2008 9:18 PM
Do we know who the player to be named is in the Chad Bradford deal? I don't recall seeing that.
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Pete's reply: No. It might end up being a cash payment.
Posted by: Ozzie Gruesome | December 9, 2008 11:58 PM
Garland and Burnett - High ERA, too many years for far too much money - sign the two Japanese pitchers - they always give effort and results. It woulc open new doors. Good moves today sneding Ramon packing and picking up some position players for the minors. Get a shorstop and then start on pitching. Once again Andy shows the talk show fools he knows what he is doing. Give the man time he is building a solid foundation. The Birds will be back - SOON.
Posted by: John Robinson | December 10, 2008 12:09 AM