It had to be a bittersweet night for Minnesota fans.Metrodome spectators were treated to a bit of history Sunday night, when Johan Santana struck out a franchise-record 17 batters.
Santana was masterful, surrendering just two hits and no walks to the Rangers in eight innings. Through eight Santana had thrown 112 pitches, so Ron Gardenhire arguably could have left him in for the ninth. But with only a 1-0 margin, Minnesota turned to Joe Nathan to finish it off.
A great night for the fans, watching their best pitcher with his best stuff.
But barring a miracle, the man who made history will be history, and probably sooner rather than later.
Despite a string of three straight losses in July and August, Santana is putting together another Cy Young-caliber season (though he may not get it due to a low win total). With only one year remaining on Santana's contract, and the odds stacked against the Twins' chances of re-signing him to an extension, look for Minnesota GM Terry Ryan to deal his ace this offseason.
As for 2008, I'd be surprised if Santana didn't command upwards of $200 million. By then he'll be 29 years old, and given that his best pitch is the change up, Santana may have some of his best years ahead of him. If Zambrano and Zito are worth $18 million apiece, I'd pay $22-25 million for Santana.
Would it be overpaying? Probably. But a player is worth what the highest bidder will pay him, and Santana may be too enticing a pitcher for a big spender to pass up.
2 comments:
I agree, I think that theoretically he is worth it. I think we could see a deal in the 6 year $150 million range for him. I don't think anyone is going to give him a longer deal.
If you are the Yanks, Red Sox, Mets, or Angels the deal is a no brainer.
For a smaller market team though, I think you can get someone who can replicate 75% of his production for half as much money.
Unfortunately, you're probably going to be right. It will be really tough if I ever have to watch Johan pitching in another uniform. :(
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