King Felix Getting Paid.... Like a King

It was reported last week the Felix Hernandez was going to sign the biggest contract for any pitcher in history. A seven year extension that would pay him $175 million.

The deal has been put on hold for now because of an issue in Felix's pitching elbow. It has not been determined what is wrong with Felix's elbow. It is possible that the issue is related to regular problems that pitchers face by being a regular starter. It is also possible that the issue is serious. Either way the issue has held up finalizing the deal.

In an era were pitchers and players in general are receiving contracts that are not only high in value, but long in length, it is important for teams to protect there investment. Recent examples have shown teams making sure money is not being wasted. CC Sabathia has an option on his contract for the year 2017. The contact language does a good job of making sure he will be able to play. The contracts says that the $25 million scheduled for 2017 will only be guaranteed if CC does not end the 2016 season on the disabled list with a left shoulder injury, does not spend more than 45 days on the disabled list due to a left shoulder injury in 2016 or if he does not make more than six relief appearances in 2016 due to a left shoulder injury. If any of those conditions are violated, CC may not recieve the $25 million. Some injuries have forced teams to not take a player at all.

The Chicago Cubs were all set to acquire pitcher Dan Haren in a trade. The Angels were going to recieve reliever Carlos Marmol. The Cubs decided to back out of the deal because of an apparent hip problem for Dan Haren.

For Hernandez, the contract will not be rushed. Hernandez still has two years remaining on his current deal.

Final Thought
It is no surprise to anyone that the Mariners have not been great in recent year. Locking up Hernandez for the long term is a necessary move for the team. It is necessary for the Mariners to get more competitive, especially now. The Seattle sports scene is expected to get a little more crowded with the former Sacramento Kings on the move to Seattle. If the Mariners do not want to become over looked in the city they must play competitive baseball. Locking up one of the best pitchers in the game today for the long haul will be vital for the Mariners success.

@dmrosen7