The Phillies should have most everybody back to defend their title in 2009. But one piece might be positioning himself to test the free agent market and then depart Philadelphia. Pat Burrell has reportedly turned down an offer of $22 million over two years from the Phillies. And while he hasn't filed for free agency officially, time is growing short before Burrell officially flees.
I, for one, can't see the Phils re-signing Burrell if the price gets much higher. He's a great hitter, and in a world where on-base percentage only grows in value, Burrell could help a lot of teams with his power and batting eye. But you also saw the down side of Burrell, where his poor defense and small range force the Phillies to remove him late in close games with a defensive replacement.
So if Burrell is looking for more years or a salary closer to say, $15 million a season, the Phillies might be better off letting Burrell go to an A.L. team to DH while filling left by either making a run at Manny Ramirez or perhaps trading for Matt Holliday.
As for Burrell, while an A.L. team would probably be ideal for him, wouldn't it be hilarious if he signed with the Mets, who need a left fielder and who Burrell tortured over the years at Shea Stadium, to play with them the year after Shea gets torn down?
Arm Bash: Hot Foot
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 2)
10-31-2008 @ 5:00PM
Hummer said...
i think he just wants more years
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10-31-2008 @ 5:53PM
Nancy said...
After seeing the LOVE today - he will stay!!
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11-06-2008 @ 2:39PM
James V said...
The Love does not translate into $s. He can get MORE than 11 mil per year and for more than 2 years ,especially if he goes to the AL. I want him to stay too. But , he won't at THAT price.
10-31-2008 @ 5:58PM
stanton ziv said...
i love pat, but woudnt matt holiday look awesome in left playing in the bank!!!!!!
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10-31-2008 @ 7:26PM
coralie said...
We'd love Pat to stay, but wish him well when he leaves us and goes to hang out with Abreu in NY
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10-31-2008 @ 7:57PM
Finallywe won1 said...
Take care Pat, please dont forget the times you truly sucked at the plate and the Phillies STILL paid you top dollar for zero production. Manny or Matt in leftfield at the bank WOULD be unreal on the offensive end.
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10-31-2008 @ 9:15PM
Wendy said...
I hope we don't lose Pat.
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10-31-2008 @ 9:02PM
bernie said...
I know Pat and his family from KC very well. Nice people! But the fact is Pat is less than a great fielder, clogs up the bases and strikes out too often. In reality he's a DH! I'm actually surprised the Phil's actually want to sign him.
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10-31-2008 @ 10:13PM
Richard said...
We all truly hope Pat stays with the Phillies. It just wouldn't be the same without him. This is from a real fan, not just one that makes those crude remarks. But those are few and far between. Thanks Pat for all of your hard work through the years, and hope for many more.
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10-31-2008 @ 10:20PM
Chris said...
I didn't see any one player who performed at his peak all season including Pat. The team did well because each member played their best all year, Pat included. When one or two were down, the others carried the team. This team was magic this year and each member including Pat was essential for it's success. We missed Aaron Rowand but still managed to get by without him. Hey Pat! Feel the love man! How much difference will a few more million really make in your life?
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10-31-2008 @ 11:15PM
Phillie Fever said...
its time for pat to pack up and go. go after Holiday or Manny or Bradley or jones they cant be more up and down then PAT the BAT or THE no Bat has been for the past 5 years
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11-01-2008 @ 1:05AM
Seaver said...
Burrell is slow and cant field, but the mets need him?? C'mon, he's headed to an AL team like Seattle or Chicago.
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11-01-2008 @ 2:42AM
MJ said...
It's time for Pat to go. He looks like he is running in quick sand, and the truth be told, he is not that good of a hitter. I would love to see Holliday in left field, would be an awesome addition to this team.
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11-01-2008 @ 2:44AM
Gene said...
He had a great tenur here in Philadelphia but I think he accomplished his goals highlighted by a World Series Title. It may be time for both to part with no hard feelings. We wish him well wherever he goes and look forward to those Fighten Phils returning to defend their World Championship for the next few years.....GO PHILLIES!!!
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11-01-2008 @ 6:10AM
steve said...
Pat The Bat is worth every million.
Not too many can say they been with one organization like Pat.
Loyalty will be shown by Phillies on this issue.
So for Ryan Howard, Cole Hammel, Take heed in what happens to ball player that's been with Phillies since 94.
What's going to be more interesting, Cole only made $500,000 this yr.
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11-01-2008 @ 9:59AM
tony said...
I like Pat and understand all he's been through in Philly.....but if you look at it he was paid pretty well and didn't always produce. If he wants to stay in this great situation in Philly, maybe he needs to take a little less. If it's all about the money, I guess he's gone, that's the basis of his decision.
Bottom line I'm glad he won a championship here after all his effort.
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11-01-2008 @ 10:37AM
michael said...
he's bum, always has beenm always will be, good ridance
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11-01-2008 @ 4:19PM
Debbie said...
I wouldnt consider Burrell leaving as " Breaking up the team". This primadonna can't hit, run or field. Would it really be that big of a loss? I could be wrong, but I personally feel that the only people who want him to stay are the women who like to see his ass. I say kiss it goodbye. Just my opinion. GO PHILLIES!! TAKE IT IN 09"
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11-01-2008 @ 4:24PM
Debbie said...
"Breaking up the Team?" Are you serious? This primadonna can't hit, run or field. Personally I don't see that as a big loss. I say see ya. GO PHILS! TAKE IT IN 09'
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11-01-2008 @ 5:19PM
mwbbfan said...
Pat is great at working deep counts which contributes to getting the other teams starters out early. He did hit some key homers this year but 22 mill for 2 years is very fair.
He has been very solid with his attitude despite some tough seasons and severe abuse from us fans. He is a class act and I wish him well in Oakland. (Just a guess)
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