The risks of Encarnacion and Nova
Speaking of which:
WISH LIST: Read Daniel Walsh’s letter to Phanta Claus, which asks the big man what we want most this year.
EDWINGS OF LOVE: Over the holiday the Indians unwrapped an Edwin Encarnacion to the tune of three years and $65 million, plus a fourth-year team option of $25 million.
It’s good for the Indians, who are looking to win right now and need a big hitter. From a Phillies perspective, this is why they’re not signing a top free agent to a multi-year deal this offseason. A commitment of more than $20 million per year is too much at this point, when the Phillies still have plenty of questions to answer before they’re a contender again.
FILL A NOVA: The Pirates brought back Ivan Nova on a three-year, $26 million pact. He was considered one of top pitchers on the market, going 12-8 with a 4.17 ERA last season.
Not sure if that’s great for the Pirates, a small-market club teetering on the verge of a complete rebuild. Again, a move we’re glad the Phils aren’t making. Going one year with Clay Buchholz and Jeremy Hellickson is much safer and could yield better returns.
