Kimbrel signs 4 year extension with a club option for fifth year

[CrimsonCowboy]

Mark Bowman ‏@mlbbowman 7m
It looks like the Braves are going to avoid an arb hearing with Kimbrel. An extension could be announced soon.

[ChapelHillMatt]

This would be a dream come true, I was under the assumption we were going to have to trade him after this year. PLEASE BE TRUE!!!

If it is true this is turning into one of the best offseasons ever!

[kyky3911]

No chance this is a long term extension right?

[kyky3911]

Buster Olney ‏@Buster_ESPN · 2m
Long-term extension is the only way ATL would be able to keep Craig Kimbrel. Dollars wouldn't work for ATL going yr.-to-yr. in arbitration.

[kyky3911]

Ken Rosenthal ‏@Ken_Rosenthal · 1m
Source: #Braves indeed close to extension with Kimbrel.

[kyky3911]

David O'Brien ‏@ajcbraves · 1m
#Braves are about to announce a Kimbrel contract this morning

[skidlee]

Atlanta Braves ‏@Braves 21s

The #Braves have agreed to terms with @kimbrel46 on a four-year contract, avoiding salary arbitration.

Atlanta Braves ‏@Braves 36s

Kimbrel's contract runs through the 2017 season and includes an option for 2018. #Braves

[thethe]

Wow, that was really unexpected. It would be cool if we could keep Kimbrel for a few more years at an affordable rate.

We all thought that Wren needed to keep this core together and he agreed.

[tvsportscaster]

Listen, I've been critical this off season for the lack of player moves for the Braves, but now we know why. Wren very smartly locked up his core players for a long time, because of this it's been a very successful off season. To me Kimbrel was key along with Freeman. Once in a lifetime closers just don't grow on trees like Kimbrel what a great job. My next guess would be an extension for Andrelton Simmons, although that's a pressing issue yet. Great job Frank.

[thethe]

Buster Olney ‏@Buster_ESPN 5m
Braves just announced Craig Kimbrel has agreed to a four-year deal. More great news for the franchise.

[thethe]

Ken Rosenthal ‏@Ken_Rosenthal 57s
Kimbrel four-year extension with #Braves buys out all 3 years of arbitration and 1 year of free agency. Club option would buy out 2nd year.

[thethe]

Now Rosenthal is reporting that there is an option for a fifth year. Lets hope these numbers aren't astronomical.

[gtcway]

Wow! I never expected to see this. Am I still asleep?

[thethe]

Buster Olney ‏@Buster_ESPN 45s
Craig Kimbrel at the outset of his career: 381 strikeouts among the first 883 batters he faced.

[thethe]

David O'Brien ‏@ajcbraves 54s
#Braves Kimbrel gets 4 yrs plus a 1-yr option, said extensions team gave to Freeman, Teheran helped convince him team serious about winning

[skidlee]

David O'Brien ‏@ajcbraves 35s

#Braves Kimbrel gets 4 yrs plus a 1-yr option, said extensions team gave to Freeman, Teheran helped convince him team serious about winning

[kyky3911]

Mark Bowman ‏@mlbbowman · 1m
Kimbrel said he didn't think an agreement was possible until the two sides began getting closer during this week's negotiations.

[thethe]

Hah, we are all excited about this!

I know I have been outspoken about trading Kimbrel. Thats not because I didn't want to see him but that hte price tag would be prohibitive. However, now that he is signed I am thrilled. Lets hope that they keep a separate budget for Craig and still devote 90-95M to the rest of the tea

[thethe]

David O'Brien ‏@ajcbraves 1m
#Braves Wren: "I'm not in the camp that says anybody can close games."

[skidlee]

Buster Olney ‏@Buster_ESPN 58s

@jaysonst reporting Kimbrel deal is worth a minimum of $42 million over four years.

[Lville21]

Hopefully Simmons and J-Up are next to call it an offseason!

[thethe]

Buster Olney ‏@Buster_ESPN 58s

@jaysonst reporting Kimbrel deal is worth a minimum of $42 million over four years.

I'd be ok if that was the max. Maybe 46 wouldn't bother me either. Just need to make sure we can spend money on the rest of the team.

[skidlee]

Mark Bowman ‏@mlbbowman 19s

Kimbrel's deal is guaranteed to be for four years and $42 million. Potential Max value is five years and $58 million.

[thethe]

I can definitely live with that!

[kyky3911]

Ken Rosenthal ‏@Ken_Rosenthal · 50s
Source: Kimbrel with #Braves four years, $42M. Can grow to $45.5M with performance bonuses. Option year worth $13M. Max value: $58.5M.

[Hawk]

Glad we didn't trade him for Profar. :eusa_dance:

[thethe]

That is a great contract. I didn't think we would get him for anything clsoe to that.

[nsacpi]

Mark Bowman‏@mlbbowman
Kimbrel's deal is guaranteed to be for four years and $42 million. Potential Max value is five years and $58 million.

[gtcway]

The Freeman and Teheran extensions, to me, meant that the braves were just trying to save money over the next few years. Kimbrel, I believe, means that they are willing to spend more on payroll and hopefully move forward as a competitive team.

[zitothebrave]

If we can just lock down Jason for longer, perfect offseason. Don't expect it but I would love it. My hunch is they'll wait til after next season at least, and see if there's a big cost difference between keeping him or Justin.

[thethe]

The Freeman and Teheran extensions, to me, meant that the braves were just trying to save money over the next few years. Kimbrel, I believe, means that they are willing to spend more on payroll and hopefully move forward as a competitive team.

Some have said that inflation is just going to get crazier. All these market deals now are going to be below market in 2-3 years.

[Yogi44]

These last few weeks have been a most unexpected turn for this team. Never thought we'd ever see this level of commitment as long as our current ownership was in place. One happy Braves fan here in NC.

[nsacpi]

My guess is it is structured something like this:

2014 8M
2015 8M
2016 11M
2017 13M
2018 option for 13M

Priced for him to be a 2.5 WAR/year player during the life of the contract.

As with the Freeman and Teheran deals, there is a discount relative to market but it is relatively small. None of these deals will turn out to be team friendly to the tune of the Sale and Goldschmidt deals.

I know few people will be concerned with budget flexibility down the road, but this deal will create some problems, especially in 2017. It would have been better to do it three years, with one or two option years.

[zitothebrave]

Mark Bowman‏@mlbbowman
Kimbrel's deal is guaranteed to be for four years and $42 million. Potential Max value is five years and $58 million.

Awesome. No way that isn't a savings for us. He'd have to massively implode. Great job by wren.

[thethe]

If we can just lock down Jason for longer, perfect offseason. Don't expect it but I would love it. My hunch is they'll wait til after next season at least, and see if there's a big cost difference between keeping him or Justin.

Signing Simmons to a 8-10 year deal would make this offseason perfect.

[zitothebrave]

Signing Simmons to a 8-10 year deal would make this offseason perfect.

I love Simmons, but I'm not too concerned about him. Our best position prospect is Peraza who's by all accounts a great glove SS. Simmons more so than Freddie or Jason I'm aggressive with my approach to retain. He has to sign below market or let him go in a year or 2.

[skidlee]

Talking Chop ‏@TalkingChop 1m

The next contract extension should be Frank Wren's.

[keithlaw]

Awesome. No way that isn't a savings for us. He'd have to massively implode. Great job by wren.

lol we basically guaranteed what he'd get in his 3 arb years and got a fa year for free and an option for a 2nd fa year at a huge discount

[thewupk]

boom. awesome news.

[keithlaw]

Some have said that inflation is just going to get crazier. All these market deals now are going to be below market in 2-3 years.

Thats exactly what we're trying to exploit. From klaw chat this week:
"Lark11 (Earth)

Given that MLB revenues are exploding at such incredible rate, isn't it likely that the percentage of revenues that trickle down to player salaries is lagging? If it's lagging, then aren't there bargains to be had, namely teams flush with revenue signing players to long-term extension before the labor cost % starts to catch up to the revenue explosion? Wouldn't it be wise to lock up talent before the market starts to reflect the new revenue reality?
Klaw (1:12 PM)

Yes, and I think some teams are figuring that out with contract extensions like Freeman's. I would also anticipate a few agents, like Boras or CAA, with a few elite players to try to push them to free agency to take advantage of the weaker FA crops and industry revenue surge."

[mossy]

Love it! Let's get Simmons locked up next!

[Hudson2]

Wow I never saw this coming. I never wanted to trade CK but figured we'd have to. I think it's safe to say that we got a big boost in payroll. The new stadium is already payin off it seems. Simmons is next I'm sure and with the way Wren is working it'll probably be in the next few days. Hopefully Minor is in there to. I love the part by CK where he said he can tell there serious about winning with all the extensions. Super positive message. Great job by Wren.

[nsacpi]

Talking Chop ‏@TalkingChop 1m

The next contract extension should be Frank Wren's.

What about Laird?

[clvclv]

Once again...

Damn you Frank Wren...you should be fired for your lack of activity this winter...worst GM ever!!!


Sure seem to be crickets chirping where some posters were whining a couple weeks ago. For future reference in the likely event that you don't enjoy that crow...don't whine early - things don't always happen overnight.)

[Deester11]

Once again...

Damn you Frank Wren...you should be fired for your lack of activity this winter...worst GM ever!!!


Sure seem to be crickets chirping where some posters were whining a couple weeks ago. For future reference in the likely event that you don't enjoy that crow...don't whine early - things don't always happen overnight.)

Quite true. Quite true...Howevah...We're Braves fans and to have been run the way we have (not all financially - just perception), means that we had to complain about SOMETHING! So let's see....stupid Wren, didn't even sign BJ to an extension yet. Oh, no wait.....

[skillet]

Wow now this is totally unexpected. So Craig is guaranteed between $42MM-$45.5MM for 4 years, or $10.5MM-$11.375MM per year on average, and if the option for $13MM is exercised in 2018, then it could go as high as $58.5MM or $11MM-$11.7MM/year on average.

I'd have to say this contract for Kimbrel, who is as an elite closer as you'll ever get, is well worth this money. While this is a lot of money, $11MM-$11.7MM/year for 5 years, Craig is well worth that. This was the only way we were going to keep him in Atlanta past the next couple years. I think this deal may be the most important, and best extension we've done this offseason. I'd give this deal a solid A.

[The Chosen One]

With all these contract signings, it may be time for a new Chop Country banner...

Kimbrel, Freeman, Julio, Simmons, and Fredi. Hell even throw my boy Frankie up there.

[zitothebrave]

With all these contract signings, it may be time for a new Chop Country banner...

Kimbrel, Freeman, Julio, Simmons, and Fredi. Hell even throw my boy Frankie up there.

http://memecrunch.com/meme/2AYQW/why-so-racist/image.png

[The Chosen One]

Come on Heyward, you're the only one from this group that isn't from the Atlanta-area and you've still yet to sign!

[The Chosen One]

http://memecrunch.com/meme/2AYQW/why-so-racist/image.png

The old streak is over. The new streak is just beginning.

[The Chosen One]

Also, Justin Upton is probably thinking "Man they gettin' all dis money right now for dese extensions, I better get a lot of money for hittin all dem homers last April".

[zitothebrave]

Also, Justin Upton is probably thinking "Man they gettin' all dis money right now for dese extensions, I better get a lot of money for hittin all dem homers last April".

Rememe from above ok?

[clvclv]

Per Heyman tweet...

Kimbrel breakdown: $1M sign bonus, $7M salary in '14, $9M in '15, $11M in '16, $13M in '17. $13M option in '18/$1M buyout

[The Chosen One]

So I guess we all owe DOB an apology.

[thewupk]

Per Heyman tweet...

Kimbrel breakdown: $1M sign bonus, $7M salary in '14, $9M in '15, $11M in '16, $13M in '17. $13M option in '18/$1M buyout

No way he doesn't exceed that arby figure in 2015 and 2016. Lots of savings here.

[clvclv]

Wren on XM now.

[gtcway]

This extension means that the best years of what could be the best closer in history (best few years, no offence to Mo) will be with the Braves. Hope we can win a world series in the next five years!

[Hawk]

If the Freeman and Tehran signings didn't demonstrate it adequately, this contract certainly does -- the Braves (and Liberty) have money, and will spend it under the right circumstances.

Throw out your budget projections for 2015 and beyond.

[Hawk]

@ajcbraves: #Braves Kimbrel:" I want to be closing out division titles and (league) championships and World Series. And we have the team to do it."
[ http://twitter.com/ajcbraves/status/435083254690242560 ]

Alright, Fredi ... now it's your turn.

@BNightengale: The #Braves are being lauded by several MLB execs for locking up Kimbrel to his four-year, $42 million deal
[ http://twitter.com/BNightengale/status/435085611850944512 ]

[AUTiger7222]

I am absolutely stoked! I was already preparing myself that this would be Kimbrel's last year with the Braves.

[skillet]

Had we won the arb hearing tomorrow which could have gone either way, he would have been paid $6.55MM, so now he will get just north of that or $7MM, so we pretty much locked in winning the arb hearing, and the $9MM in 2015 and $11MM in 2016 are best case scenarios for the Braves assuming we had won tomorrow, and they are now locked in as well. Then to get him for $13MM in both 2017 and 2018 just tops off this team friendly deal. Great job Wren!

[emk418]

I can definitely live with that!

Very reasonable deal. I love it!

[PawPawMaxwell]

IMO the best result of this extension is not the obvious one of being affordable for the foreseeable future but realistically he is now more attractive to some of the big market teams down the road and could bring an awesome return in trade should that become a move that the team would need to make.

[thethe]

IMO the best result of this extension is not the obvious one of being affordable for the foreseeable future but realistically he is now more attractive to some of the big market teams down the road and could bring an awesome return in trade should that become a move that the team would need to make.

No way Kimbrel is traded anymore.

[GovClintonTyree]

IMO the best result of this extension is not the obvious one of being affordable for the foreseeable future but realistically he is now more attractive to some of the big market teams down the road and could bring an awesome return in trade should that become a move that the team would need to make.

IMO you're the only one on the planet thinking that way.

[Millwood1Hitter]

I know some on here don't like him, and I will agree that he hasn't been perfect and made a few questionable decisions throughout his tenure, but I absolutely love Frank Wren. I think he's done a really good job and has won more often than not in deals, and he held to his guns with not trading away this young core, and now keeping them.

[GovClintonTyree]

Very reasonable deal. I love it!

It is. I do too. I didn't see this coming, mostly because I thought Kimbrel wanted to get paid starter money.

He can get a little run up in that fifth year if he's still an ultrastud. Heck of a nice deal.

Simmons, obviously. I'd also try to lock in Minor and Medlen.

[GovClintonTyree]

I know some on here don't like him, and I will agree that he hasn't been perfect and made a few questionable decisions throughout his tenure, but I absolutely love Frank Wren. I think he's done a really good job and has won more often than not in deals, and he held to his guns with not trading away this young core, and now keeping them.

I've liked Frank and his work all along. Other than Upton, I would've made all the deals he made, even the ones that came up snake eyes.

[mossy]

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b171/JamieSanders/Mobile%20Uploads/CC1D1068-29EF-4ACD-BBB3-295C34381620_zpsjghkvq7w.jpg (http://s19.photobucket.com/user/JamieSanders/media/Mobile%20Uploads/CC1D1068-29EF-4ACD-BBB3-295C34381620_zpsjghkvq7w.jpg.html)

Stole this from @bravesmeme

[PawPawMaxwell]

IMO you're the only one on the planet thinking that way.

This is absolutely the best deal this off season. No argument. But assume Kimbrel wins his arbitration at $9M,what would next year demand (assuming continued success) and no telling what he would get in 2016. That would mean the worse possible outcome for the Braves as a team and making him virtually untradable at any point to any team. Prior to today there is not way to predict any return on a $9M investment. Now IMO he is attractive to probably 2/3ds of the teams out there and affordable to them as well.

[PawPawMaxwell]

[QUOTE=thethe;78594]No way Kimbrel is traded anymore.[/QUOT

I remember the day when Harvey Kuenn was considered the best SS in baseball only to be traded away for a banged up Rocky Colavito.

[NinersSBChamps]

Now we just find a manager who will use Craig when it matters.

[AUTiger7222]

I know some on here don't like him, and I will agree that he hasn't been perfect and made a few questionable decisions throughout his tenure, but I absolutely love Frank Wren. I think he's done a really good job and has won more often than not in deals, and he held to his guns with not trading away this young core, and now keeping them.

I have never understood the Frank Wren hate. He's done a masterful job!

[gtcway]

Now we just find a manager who will use Craig when it matters.

With all of the attention that decision got, there's no way that happens again. If anything, I think he might end up overusing Kimbrel in the postseason in the future.

[Millwood1Hitter]

Gov, and I understand why he did what he did with the BJ deal. I loved the Uggla trade, just hasn't worked out and should have waited on extension.

My only major beefs with Wren was over the KK deal, I don't think that was a move or risk that needed to be made. And the other one was tex for kotch, should have taken the best deal possible no matter what positions the players or prospects involved played. But IMO, all the Tex mess is in JS who was an epic disaster the last decade of his tenure.

[nsacpi]

IMO you're the only one on the planet thinking that way.

I had the same thought as PawPaw that this does make Kimbrel a trade possibility down the road. But maybe we are both crazy.

[holden]

I like all the deals we're making.

I will say that the odd man out on all these deals is the one I wanted to lock up the most, but oh well. This is a solid core.

[NinersSBChamps]

I have never understood the Frank Wren hate. He's done a masterful job!

People question him because of the moves he makes that don't involve current Braves players. Uggla and BJ are the big ones.

I applaud him for getting the extensions done that he has in recent weeks. Generally he makes very solid trades as well. His flaw is free agent signings though and with a mid market budget those deals can really hurt the franchise.

[skillet]

I had the same thought as PawPaw that this does make Kimbrel a trade possibility down the road. But maybe we are both crazy.


While I agree with those that say we have no intention of trading, and I hope we don't, this is a valid and important point, because this team friendly deal gives the club another potential attractive option which is never a bad thing.

[nsacpi]

While I agree with those that say we have no intention of trading, and I hope we don't, this is a valid and important point, because this team friendly deal gives the club another potential attractive option which is never a bad thing.

So 3 of us are crazy. That makes me feel better.

[AUTiger7222]

Gov, and I understand why he did what he did with the BJ deal. I loved the Uggla trade, just hasn't worked out and should have waited on extension.

My only major beefs with Wren was over the KK deal, I don't think that was a move or risk that needed to be made. And the other one was tex for kotch, should have taken the best deal possible no matter what positions the players or prospects involved played. But IMO, all the Tex mess is in JS who was an epic disaster the last decade of his tenure.

But the KK deal was perfectly understandable. The Braves had absolutely no starting pitching. Nobody knew KK would bomb.

[Hawk]

But the KK deal was perfectly understandable. The Braves had absolutely no starting pitching. Nobody knew KK would bomb.

Exactly. It really wasn't that bad of a deal, especially if you factor in how much the Braves probably made in merch sales and TV royalties from Japan (Kawakami was a well-established NPB pitcher prior to crossing the Pacific).

Wren's first choice from Japan that offseason was actually Junichi Tazawa, but we were outbid by the Red Sox.

[NinersSBChamps]

How about that Derek Lowe signing?

[NYCBrave]

IMO the best result of this extension is not the obvious one of being affordable for the foreseeable future but realistically he is now more attractive to some of the big market teams down the road and could bring an awesome return in trade should that become a move that the team would need to make.

I actually agree with this comment. Gives us the flexibility to trade him some point down the line in the worst case scenario.

[yeezus]

Most of us who aren't whiners knew all along why there were no big trades or signing this off-season, and it's because the franchise knew what kind of a young core it had and that it had to be kept together. These deals the last few weeks are a breath of fresh air and excitement. Awesome to see. I feel most happy about this deal.

[AUTiger7222]

Exactly. It really wasn't that bad of a deal, especially if you factor in how much the Braves probably made in merch sales and TV royalties from Japan (Kawakami was a well-established NPB pitcher prior to crossing the Pacific).

Wren's first choice from Japan that offseason was actually Junichi Tazawa, but we were outbid by the Red Sox.

And Tazawa has been almost as bad in the majors and has been hurt too.

[Russ2dollas]

I've been a big trade CK guy. But this is a very reasonable deal. I like that we are paying guys money (being fair and not trying to take advantage) and the players are being reasonable.

I really believe that locking down these key pieces is going to be a huge advantage for the organization. They will know who their cornerstone pieces are and that can guide trades, FA signings, and draft strategy for the next couple of years.

I want to lock up Simmons. Then Heyward next, Then JUp if possible (maybe at least till the end of his bro's contract). Gattis is too old to need an extension even if he becomes a stud.

I hope Wrenn will have a better record with extending our own guys then he does with FA.

Develop our own. Keep the studs. Use FA to fill holes, not long term contracts. That will be best for us.

[AUTiger7222]

How about that Derek Lowe signing?

The Derek Lowe signing wasn't that bad and was much needed after losing out A.J. Burnett and not trading for Jake Peavy. And Lowe was actually pretty good the first 2 years he was here.

[Millwood1Hitter]

I didn't mind the Lowe deal at all. We needed pitching, and needed lots of it. We were relying on the likes of Campillo, Carlisle, James, etc.

Remember wrens first choice was Burnett, but we got outbid by the Yanks and he didn't wanna come here. I think he would have been dominant in a lower pressure environment like Atlanta and working with Roger and Bobby.

And wren wouldn't cave in to giving up Hanson for Peavy.

The KK signing was not necessary because up to that point FW did a masterful job rebuilding the rotation with Lowe and Vasquez, with Jurrgens. And Hanson and Medlen were close to ready, and Glavine was a depth signing. KK was redundant and if we wanted another starter we should have made an offer to Randy Wolf, who cost the same as KK only on a one year deal instead of 3.

But Wolf wasn't a possibility I guess after the Furcal fiasco and the tension that created between organization and agent so it's all revisionist history I guess.

[Hawk]

By the sound of it, we shouldn't be surprised if Simmons is locked up before Opening Day.

[Millwood1Hitter]

Hopefully Simmons and Minor are next.

[Hawk]

I really believe that locking down these key pieces is going to be a huge advantage for the organization. They will know who their cornerstone pieces are and that can guide trades, FA signings, and draft strategy for the next couple of years.

Well said. These signings go beyond simple financial security -- they are, in essence, a rough script for the next three quarters of a decade of Braves baseball. Pretty exciting if you think about it, especially when considering the character (and talents) of the guys signing on the dotted line.

[CrimsonCowboy]

MLB Network Radio ‏@MLBNetworkRadio 2h
Wren says new stadium was key in deals: "I’m not sure we’re talking about any of this if we had not had opportunity to move to Cobb County."

[CrimsonCowboy]

Joel Sherman ‏@Joelsherman1 3m
Hear #Braves want to sign Simmons long term but sides differ on offensive value now/future. Hitting pays huge, defense doesn’t.

[thewupk]

Joel Sherman ‏@Joelsherman1 3m
Hear #Braves want to sign Simmons long term but sides differ on offensive value now/future. Hitting pays huge, defense doesn’t.

I think that's fair too. If I was Simmons I wouldn't sell myself short just yet.

[Millwood1Hitter]

Well said. These signings go well beyond financial security -- they are, in essence, a rough script for the next three quarters of a decade of Braves baseball. Pretty exciting if you think about it, especially when considering the character (and talents) of the guys signing on the dotted line.

Exactly! We are going to be set at important positions, especially if we can get deals done with Simmons and Minor as well, and one if Heyward/Upton next year and can fill other needs through minors, trades, FA with lesser type players. This could be the start of another potential dynasty.

And for filling those holes, say we need a 2b or end of game reliever (just using this as examples) if a still productive veteran who had yet to get a ring is available and looking at his options, Atlanta looks pretty darn attractive.

And maybe it's not even that, maybe it's a veteran backup that provides depth that puts teams over the top.

[Gary82]

I am rescinding my original stance that this offseason was terrible. What a month! Wren (and Hart?) are determined to retain our core for many years to come.

I never thought it was possible to keep Kimbrel and had resigned myself to the fact that he must be traded. Kimbrel took less money and our window for winning it all remains open for the next few years.

Now it's time to extend Minor.

Then Simmons.

Then Wren.

[AUTiger7222]

Kimbrel can add value to his contract through a points system.

He would earn five points each time he's an All-Star, 10 for winning a Cy Young Award, five for finishing second or third in Cy Young, three for finishing fourth or fifth in Cy Young, five for being the top Cy Young voter-getter among pitchers with fewer than five starts; 10 for winning an MVP award, five for finishing second or third in MVP, third for finishing fourth or fifth in MVP, and three for each season with 57 or more games finished.

Kimbrel would be paid $1 million for 20 points and $500,000 for each additional five points through 45.

Link (http://espn.go.com/mlb/story/_/id/10465068/craig-kimbrel-atlanta-braves-agree-terms-four-year-deal)

[Dalyn]

THIS is a good deal. Very happy. Hope Simmons is next.

With all of this being thrown around, I sure hope we fix the holes so we can make a run at a few titles.

[Gary82]

Best move of the offseason? Cobb County? It seems like the team is expecting big revenue from the move. I hope they're right.

[Hawk]

@mlbbowman: Kimbrel received the largest guarantee and average annual value ever given to any first-year arbitration-eligible pitcher.
[ http://twitter.com/mlbbowman/status/435125448259809280 ]

[yeezus]

I'm glad people are coming around to this off-season, but this is what a lot of us were saying was going to happen - Wren wanted to lock up some of our core guys long-term, and needed to plan accordingly.

Obviously he needed to test the waters when guys like David Price and Jeff Samardjiza are said to be in the block, because this team is talented enough to win next year, and adding a guy like Price would have helped immediately. But, I think it's clear that Wren weighed the options of what he would have had to sacrifice for those guys, and decided to hedge his bets and job on our young talent. I would not be shocked to see another 1-2 deals between now and the end of the year (do we negotiate mid-season?) to one of our young guys.

[Knucksie]

Can we just enjoy this news, instead of revisiting Lowe & Kawakami yet again?

[NYCBrave]

I almost wonder if we're going to have to (and should) wait until next off-season to lock up Simmons. If the sides are truly that far apart on the offensive side of things, give him a season to show improvement there and we can see what we've got.

[Tapate50]

Folks we need to get Wren a new contract ASAP.

[Heyward]

Wow, 4 years, 42 million with an option for 13 mil in 2018.

I LOVE this deal.

Everyone knows i've been saying trade him but thats because i figured he'd get 15-20 mil in 2 years as a FA.

Good job, Frank!!!!!!!

[Heyward]

IMO the best result of this extension is not the obvious one of being affordable for the foreseeable future but realistically he is now more attractive to some of the big market teams down the road and could bring an awesome return in trade should that become a move that the team would need to make.

Kimbrel isnt being traded.

It's OBVIOUS payroll is going up, to what extent, thats up for debate, he will be with the Braves for the next 5 years.

After that is anyones guess.

They arent trading him, dont be stupid.

[Heyward]

I actually agree with this comment. Gives us the flexibility to trade him some point down the line in the worst case scenario.

Kimbrel isnt getting traded, stop it.

[Heyward]

Joel Sherman ‏@Joelsherman1 3m
Hear #Braves want to sign Simmons long term but sides differ on offensive value now/future. Hitting pays huge, defense doesn’t.

I wonder what the numbers being thrown out there are.

Would be nice to sign him before Opening Day while only having to worry about Minor and Justin or JHey next offseason.

[PawPawMaxwell]

Kimbrel isnt being traded.

It's OBVIOUS payroll is going up, to what extent, thats up for debate, he will be with the Braves for the next 5 years.

After that is anyones guess.

They arent trading him, dont be stupid.

I assume you an adult so just quit with the insulting bull **** about people who have a differing opinion or idea as being stupid.

Unfortunately there is no ignore function on this site or we could both use it.

[NYCBrave]

Kimbrel isnt getting traded, stop it.

It would be ignorant to assume he could not be traded at some point during this contract, you never know what could happen. Especially if Heyward and Upton approach us with reasonable extension demands.

[Heyward]

It would be ignorant to assume he could not be traded at some point during this contract, you never know what could happen. Especially if Heyward and Upton approach us with reasonable extension demands.

Well, with the new ballpark/inflation, they might be able to keep both.

All i'm saying is this deal means he's not going anywhere for the next 4-5 years, thats all.

I guess he COULD be traded but i would be very surprised.

If he was, it would be next offseason depending how the arb-hearing went.

[Heyward]

I assume you an adult so just quit with the insulting bull **** about people who have a differing opinion or idea as being stupid.

Unfortunately there is no ignore function on this site or we could both use it.

Sorry for being a smartass.

Two, with this deal, i dont see them trading him now.

For a closer like him, this is very team-friendly given what he'd get on the FA market.

At most 5/58 for the best closer in baseball, a little over 11 mil a year, thats very good for us.

[yeezus]

Sorry for being a smartass.

Two, with this deal, i dont see them trading him now.

For a closer like him, this is very team-friendly given what he'd get on the FA market.

At most 5/58 for the best closer in baseball, a little over 11 mil a year, thats very good for us.

I think most of us who know you well enough knows you don't mean to be a smartass or insulting, and I, for one, have accepted it.

[PawPawMaxwell]

Sorry for being a smartass.

Two, with this deal, i dont see them trading him now.

For a closer like him, this is very team-friendly given what he'd get on the FA market.

At most 5/58 for the best closer in baseball, a little over 11 mil a year, thats very good for us.

Thanks for the apology Now lets move on.

I disagree with you that 5/58 is a good deal for us. It is/would be a VERY good deal for a big payroll team but if it keeps us from making other improvements in extensions or areas of need, this IMO it is not a good deal. My thoughts are based soley on the premise that Kimbrel could possibly have won his arbitration this year, thereby making him virtually untradeable and unaffordable for us.

FWIW, back in December all the baseball insiders on Hot Stove and MLB Tonite (like em or not) repeatedly stated that GMs of other than high payroll were discounting value of closers.

[Heyward]

Thanks for the apology Now lets move on.

I disagree with you that 5/58 is a good deal for us. It is/would be a VERY good deal for a big payroll team but if it keeps us from making other improvements in extensions or areas of need, this IMO it is not a good deal. My thoughts are based soley on the premise that Kimbrel could possibly have won his arbitration this year, thereby making him virtually untradeable and unaffordable for us.

FWIW, back in December all the baseball insiders on Hot Stove and MLB Tonite (like em or not) repeatedly stated that GMs of other than high payroll were discounting value of closers.

Our payroll will CLEARLY go up in the next couple of years, that is clear.

How high, thats up for debate.

I've been a pro-trade Kimbrel but that was because i thought he'd hit FA or be too pricy once he got more expensice, say 15-20 mil in arb.

A max value of 5/58 if very good for us.

Yes, if he won his arb-hearing sure, but he didnt and we have him on a team-friendly deal. Question, how much would he sign for if he hit the market?

16-18 per year?

We have him under that.

I dont disagree closers are overvalued but Kimbrel isnt like most closers. His first 3 years are legendary. I just never thought this would happen.

[jason27nc]

Thanks for the apology Now lets move on.

I disagree with you that 5/58 is a good deal for us. It is/would be a VERY good deal for a big payroll team but if it keeps us from making other improvements in extensions or areas of need, this IMO it is not a good deal. My thoughts are based soley on the premise that Kimbrel could possibly have won his arbitration this year, thereby making him virtually untradeable and unaffordable for us.

FWIW, back in December all the baseball insiders on Hot Stove and MLB Tonite (like em or not) repeatedly stated that GMs of other than high payroll were discounting value of closers.

I think you are a stupid ********, ******* for thinking this. Just kidding. I did that for fun because you went all Chuck Norris on Heyward. I do disagree with you but that is your opinion. You have to look what most closers are going for these days. Kimbrel is arguably the best of them all and we are getting him for way less than most of them are going for. Like it or not, the closer role in baseball is a very important role in today's baseball. We now know we have that part fixed for at least 5 years baring injury.

[NYCBrave]

Well, with the new ballpark/inflation, they might be able to keep both.

All i'm saying is this deal means he's not going anywhere for the next 4-5 years, thats all.

I guess he COULD be traded but i would be very surprised.

If he was, it would be next offseason depending how the arb-hearing went.

I mean, weren't we surprised that this extension even happened in the first place? Most people had him off the team after this season. There's no way unless the payroll goes up to 130 million that we're affording both Hewyard and Justin on extensions

[Heyward]

For the record, it does make him more tradeable.

But Uggla's deal will eventually be off the books by then.

They could still trade him if they want, but not anytime soon ie within the next 3 years at least.

[weso1]

I don't know how I feel about this. Obviously a huge fan of Kimbrel and he's the best in the game so you'd rather have the guy in his prime than not have him. But at the same time is it smart for a mid market team to ever give that much money to a closer?

[thewupk]

Kimbrel is a 2.5-3 win player without taking into consideration that not all relievers can close. Even with his two free agency years he's being paid below current market value. It's a huge win

Yes. Most closers are overpaid. But Kimbrel isn't most closers. And he signed 2 free agent years away at below market value prices.

[Heyward]

I mean, weren't we surprised that this extension even happened in the first place? Most people had him off the team after this season. There's no way unless the payroll goes up to 130 million that we're affording both Hewyard and Justin on extensions

Uggla's deal will eventually be off the books.

Medlen will be gone in 2 years.

It may not be 130 million but we dont know how high it may jump.

And what are they gonna trade him for, 2 prospects?

We can just trade some pitching for an Upton-like deal by then.

Heyward will probably cost around what Freddie got, and JUp around 5/80 or so.

[jason27nc]

I am very happy and quite frankly impressed with the front office this off season.

1.The announcement of an entire new location for a new stadium. This puts the Braves into a more fan friendly location. Wow, I can't wait.
2. The extension of Jason Heyward. This gives Heyward a 2nd chance if you will to show that he can be the big time player we all need and want.
3. The huge contract to Freeman. This guy has earned this huge contract. He is replacing Chipper as the face of the Braves IMO.
4. Julio Teheran signing a 6 year contract.
5. Signing Kimbrel to a contract to insure he stays a Brave for at least 5 years. The closer role is huge these days because you don't have very many complete games by your starters anymore.

Now we wait on Simmons to get a deal done. In all you have a very young and very good group of players that is the core of this baseball team. Think about the 90's for instance. We had a very good core and we would always add the veteran guys to fill the much needed holes. That worked out pretty good.

[Hawk]

It is/would be a VERY good deal for a big payroll team but if it keeps us from making other improvements in extensions or areas of need, this IMO it is not a good deal. My thoughts are based soley on the premise that Kimbrel could possibly have won his arbitration this year, thereby making him virtually untradeable and unaffordable for us.

FWIW, back in December all the baseball insiders on Hot Stove and MLB Tonite (like em or not) repeatedly stated that GMs of other than high payroll were discounting value of closers.

This is a fundamental (and common) misunderstanding about our payroll. The Braves might not be in Philadelphia territory in terms of dollar flexibility, but it is pretty clear they are no longer a $100MM team. No payroll has been set for this season, much less next. It isn't outside of the realm of possibility that Atlanta be closer to $150MM+ when the team transitions to the new stadium in Cobb.

This contract is a steal for Atlanta, there's really little argument against it. The base AAV ($10.6MM) puts things in perspective -- it's only $600K more than Jim Johnson is being paid this season, at age 31, by the Oakland A's (a solidly small payroll team).

[Carp]

I don't know how I feel about this. Obviously a huge fan of Kimbrel and he's the best in the game so you'd rather have the guy in his prime than not have him. But at the same time is it smart for a mid market team to ever give that much money to a closer?

I think you have to view his contract in context with the pen as a whole. As long as we can continue to develop/trade for cheap, quality BP options, then we can afford to have an expensive closer.

[CrimsonCowboy]

Craig Kimbrel ‏@kimbrel46 5m
Awesome day. So happy to be apart of #BravesCountry for the next 4 years. Thank you for all the support braves fans!

[mossy]

Can we just enjoy this news, instead of revisiting Lowe & Kawakami yet again?

Amen.

[Heyward]

This is a fundamental (and common) misunderstanding about our payroll. The Braves might not be in Philadelphia territory in terms of dollar flexibility, but it is pretty clear they are no longer a $100MM team. No payroll has been set for this season, much less next. It isn't outside of the realm of possibility that Atlanta be closer to $150MM+ when the team transitions to the new stadium in Cobb.



Exactly.

It wont be in LA/NYY/Phi territory.

But it is going up, Wren has stated as such.

How high is up for debate.

I would guess in the 115-120 million range but could be more for all we know.

I would figure we can only keep one of Jason or Justin but that depends on what payroll will be.

[Heyward]

#Braves Wren: ‘We’re thrilled that Craig’s going to be here for at least the next 4 years, and we’re pretty confident it’s going to be 5.”

[The Chosen One]

I don't know how I feel about this. Obviously a huge fan of Kimbrel and he's the best in the game so you'd rather have the guy in his prime than not have him. But at the same time is it smart for a mid market team to ever give that much money to a closer?


I rather give this contract to Kimbrel than the one Teheran got.

[jpx7]

So 3 of us are crazy. That makes me feel better.

Make it four—in which case maybe it's an epidemic.

[keithlaw]

I rather give this contract to Kimbrel than the one Teheran got.

http://i.imgur.com/yfrSaBc.jpg

[The Chosen One]

http://i.imgur.com/yfrSaBc.jpg

Kimbrel has proven more in 3 years than Teheran has in 1.

[Heyward]

Kimbrel has proven more in 3 years than Teheran has in 1.

And?

[Hawk]

How high is up for debate.

I would guess in the 115-120 million range but could be more for all we know.

I would figure we can only keep one of Jason or Justin but that depends on what payroll will be.

I think we can keep both. Provided they want to play here.

Take a look at the three most recent MLB parks to open, and the way those teams' payrolls trended upward in the two years prior.

[Miami Marlins]
2012: $101,628,000
2011: $ 57,695,000
2010: $ 47,429,719
Increase: ~$54MM

[Minnesota Twins]
2010: $ 97,659,167
2009: $ 65,299,266
2008: $ 56,932,766
Increase: ~$41MM

[New York Mets]
2009: $149,373,987
2008: $137,793,376
2007: $115,231,663
Increase: ~$34MM

[PawPawMaxwell]

#Braves Wren: ‘We’re thrilled that Craig’s going to be here for at least the next 4 years, and we’re pretty confident it’s going to be 5.”

Does this mean the lame duck Wren is getting an extension?

[Heyward]

I think we can keep both. Provided they want to play here.

Take a look at the three most recent MLB parks to open, and the way those teams' payrolls trended upward in the two years prior.

[Miami Marlins]
2012: $101,628,000
2011: $ 57,695,000
2010: $ 47,429,719
Increase: ~$54MM

[St. Louis Cardinals]
2010: $ 97,659,167
2009: $ 65,299,266
2008: $ 56,932,766
Increase: ~$41MM

[New York Mets]
2009: $149,373,987
2008: $137,793,376
2007: $115,231,663
Increase: ~$34MM

We're at 100 mil or so now.

So how much of an increase?

Say 5/80 for Justin, and Freeman's deal or more for Heyward.

Uggla's deal will be off the books soon, and Meds will to.

I guess they could keep them both but i'd be surprised.

Might need to extend Minor too but we have him for 4 more years i think.

[keithlaw]

Does this mean the lame duck Wren is getting an extension?

http://i.imgur.com/yfrSaBc.jpg

[50PoundHead]

Risky? I suppose. And I get the argument that closers can be over-valued. Kimbrel is so dominant right now and it's hard to put a value on that.

I have been a fairly consistent critic of Wren, but it's difficult to criticize him here. He has doled up some big dough in the past few weeks to guys who are "nucleus" guys and I didn't know if he would do that. We'll just have to wait and see how it works out. The Teheran contract is probably the riskiest, but he could also be the most valuable guy of the three when all is said and done.

[Hawk]

So how much of an increase?

There's no way of knowing, exactly. Several of us speculated that the payroll would go up prior to the opening of the new stadium, but I didn't expect to see that spending begin this offseason.

Given the amount of team funds that are going into the new facility (ballpark and 'village'), it's imperative that the Braves be competitive come 2017 -- and we're seeing Wren laying that foundation now. It still wouldn't surprise me to see the FO push for Price (either via trade or waiting until FA) and some other premium talent over the next few years.

[Hawk]

FWIW (probably little), both Teheran and Simmons have the same agents (SFX).

[Hudson2]

I could def see payroll goin up to about $130. Even more if we could rework our tv deal. Simmons, Minor, Heyward, Upton would be the order I would work the next extensions. This all gives Wren a clear picture of our payroll for the next 5 years or so. Don't be surprised to see him target an ace at the deadline either.

[Heyward]

For those saying Kimbrel is more tradeable.

Why would they sign him to this deal with the new ballpark coming.

Everyone knows Kimbrel is a huge fan favorite, why trade him for a few prospects?

[Heyward]

I could def see payroll goin up to about $130. Even more if we could rework our tv deal. Simmons, Minor, Heyward, Upton would be the order I would work the next extensions. This all gives Wren a clear picture of our payroll for the next 5 years or so. Don't be surprised to see him target an ace at the deadline either.

I'd wait on Minor.

We cant sign Heyward until next offseason but i would have it at.

Simmons, Heyward, Minor, JUp.

Minor has 4 years of control left i think.

Simmons i try to get before Opening Day leaving those three to keep him, or two.

Regards to an ace, i wouldnt count on it.

[AUTiger7222]

This is a fundamental (and common) misunderstanding about our payroll. The Braves might not be in Philadelphia territory in terms of dollar flexibility, but it is pretty clear they are no longer a $100MM team. No payroll has been set for this season, much less next. It isn't outside of the realm of possibility that Atlanta be closer to $150MM+ when the team transitions to the new stadium in Cobb.

This contract is a steal for Atlanta, there's really little argument against it. The base AAV ($10.6MM) puts things in perspective -- it's only $600K more than Jim Johnson is being paid this season, at age 31, by the Oakland A's (a solidly small payroll team).

And Jim Johnson just had a season with more blown saves than Craig Kimbrel has in his entire career.

[AUTiger7222]

I think we can keep both. Provided they want to play here.

Take a look at the three most recent MLB parks to open, and the way those teams' payrolls trended upward in the two years prior.

[Miami Marlins]
2012: $101,628,000
2011: $ 57,695,000
2010: $ 47,429,719
Increase: ~$54MM

[St. Louis Cardinals]
2010: $ 97,659,167
2009: $ 65,299,266
2008: $ 56,932,766
Increase: ~$41MM

[New York Mets]
2009: $149,373,987
2008: $137,793,376
2007: $115,231,663
Increase: ~$34MM

The Cardinals stadium opened in 2006.

[Hawk]

The Cardinals stadium opened in 2006.

Thanks, that was actually the info for the Twins.

[Orphan Black]

Nice deal...never thought they'd be able to afford Kimbrel...glad I was wrong, and glad he was willing to sign for this.

[AUTiger7222]

Thanks, that was actually the info for the Twins.

Makes sense now. I wouldn't use the Marlins as an example since they had that fire sell and traded all those guys after signing them, but the other examples, especially the Twins, is very comparable to the Braves situation.

[mossy]

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b171/JamieSanders/Mobile%20Uploads/20505E15-1C5A-4D9C-80B3-09A90A5767EC_zpsohf7qbkh.jpg (http://s19.photobucket.com/user/JamieSanders/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20505E15-1C5A-4D9C-80B3-09A90A5767EC_zpsohf7qbkh.jpg.html)

[jcc03004]

I don't remember too many complaints the consensus was that Lowe was still good and without him we don't make the playoffs in 2010

[Heyward]

I don't remember too many complaints the consensus was that Lowe was still good and without him we don't make the playoffs in 2010

It was a good deal mostly, we had no pitching at the time so i wont blame him for that or even KK for that matter.

First 2 he was good, 3rd year meh, obviously had to trade him in the 4th year.

[Knucksie]

This is a fundamental (and common) misunderstanding about our payroll. The Braves might not be in Philadelphia territory in terms of dollar flexibility, but it is pretty clear they are no longer a $100MM team. No payroll has been set for this season, much less next. It isn't outside of the realm of possibility that Atlanta be closer to $150MM+ when the team transitions to the new stadium in Cobb.

As most of us know, this board has no shortage of experts on what the payroll is and what the salary should be for every player over the next several years.

[Heyward]

I almost wonder if we're going to have to (and should) wait until next off-season to lock up Simmons. If the sides are truly that far apart on the offensive side of things, give him a season to show improvement there and we can see what we've got.

It's a good question.

But what if he has a very good year offensively and will cost more to sign?

Not bad to try to sign him now at a little discount (Longo's first, MadBum, Goldy among others) were discounts.

Im not sure what type of numbers are being thrown out though, years as well.

[Knucksie]

Nice deal...never thought they'd be able to afford Kimbrel...glad I was wrong, and glad he was willing to sign for this.

Yes, there some noise being made here him becoming the $20 million closer.

[Carp]

It's a good question.

But what if he has a very good year offensively and will cost more to sign?

Not bad to try to sign him now at a little discount (Longo's first, MadBum, Goldy among others) were discounts.

Im not sure what type of numbers are being thrown out though, years as well.

I'm sure it isn't more than 50 million considering his offense is pretty weak at the moment. I'd assume we're talking about a 6-7 yr deal at least.

[Russ2dollas]

CK's deal appears to have a decent amount of incentives.

Maybe we can do that with Simmons. Lock him down and then use incentives to pay him for offense if it comes. If they do, I just hope they use OPS vs avg or HR.

[cajunrevenge]

But what if he has a very good year offensively and will cost more to sign?


Thats a problem I wouldn't mind having.

[thewupk]

CK's deal appears to have a decent amount of incentives.

Maybe we can do that with Simmons. Lock him down and then use incentives to pay him for offense if it comes. If they do, I just hope they use OPS vs avg or HR.

Unless things have changed you can't put incentives on actual performance numbers like that. You can do it on games played, voting in certain awards, all-star appearances, etc.

[TDlxANDER]

People show up to watch CK. When he comes out of the pen....the camera phones come out.

Like others have stated.....worst case scenario, the team falls apart somehow and needs to start over in 3 years, it's a very tradeable contract to potentially get a nice package in return. Hopefully that isn't the case and he's here for at least all 5 years and a few more division crowns.

[jpx7]

For those saying Kimbrel is more tradeable.

Why would they sign him to this deal with the new ballpark coming.

Everyone knows Kimbrel is a huge fan favorite, why trade him for a few prospects?

I think you're missing the point. It's not that Wren will, or even should, trade Kimbrel over the course of this contract; it's that one ancillary benefit of this deal is that—with its affordable cost-certainty—the Braves could receive a much better return for Kimbrel if and only if events dictated doing so.

[skillet]

This article by MLBTR shows just how much of a team friendly deal this probably is.

http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2014/02/how-much-would-kimbrel-have-earned-in-arbitration.html

[Enscheff]

This is another one of those deals where the player leaves some cash on the table in order to get financial security now, while his elbow and shoulder are both still intact. The team saves some money in exchange for taking on more of the injury risk. In Kimbrel's case, this contract is structured such that he went from being a potential salary dump or non-tender candidate after the 2014/2015 season, to a locked up piece of the core of the team.

The Braves are probably overpaying for the closer position towards the end of this deal (considering the downward trajectory closer salaries have taken recently), but it essentially turned a lost asset into a positive asset, so in all it is a very good deal imo.

[yeezus]

This is another one of those deals where the player leaves some cash on the table in order to get financial security now, while his elbow and shoulder are both still intact. The team saves some money in exchange for taking on more of the injury risk. In Kimbrel's case, this contract is structured such that he went from being a potential salary dump or non-tender candidate after the 2014/2015 season, to a locked up piece of the core of the team.

The Braves are probably overpaying for the closer position towards the end of this deal (considering the downward trajectory closer salaries have taken recently), but it essentially turned a lost asset into a positive asset, so in all it is a very good deal imo.

Downward trajectory, like Jim Johnson and Grant Balfour, who are both half as good as Kimbrel?

[Heyward]

I think you're missing the point. It's not that Wren will, or even should, trade Kimbrel over the course of this contract; it's that one ancillary benefit of this deal is that—with its affordable cost-certainty—the Braves could receive a much better return for Kimbrel if and only if events dictated doing so.

Sure its more "tradeable" but why trade him before the new stadium opens?

Doesnt make much sense.

[mfree80]

Sure its more "tradeable" but why trade him before the new stadium opens?

Doesnt make much sense.

I don't think anybody is suggesting trading Kimbrall, and I doubt they will... but if circumstances were to change, the new contract means he would be easier to trade, and the return would be greater.

Does that make it clearer?

[Heyward]

I don't think anybody is suggesting trading Kimbrall, and I doubt they will... but if circumstances were to change, the new contract means he would be easier to trade, and the return would be greater.

Does that make it clearer?

I know what they mean.

But i doubt it happens unless the haul is insane.

[Enscheff]

Downward trajectory, like Jim Johnson and Grant Balfour, who are both half as good as Kimbrel?

Closers have very clearly been less valued in the last couple offseasons. I'm sorry if you can't understand that fact.

[thethe]

Closers have very clearly been less valued in the last couple offseasons. I'm sorry if you can't understand that fact.

How many elite closers have hit the market?

[NinersSBChamps]

How many elite closers have hit the market?

Soriano? Is he elite?

[thethe]

Soriano? Is he elite?

He got a lot when he hit the market. I think thats the point. Teams will pay for Kimbrel. Teams aren't going to pay for Jim Johnson.

[AUTiger7222]

Closers have very clearly been less valued in the last couple offseasons. I'm sorry if you can't understand that fact.

Joe Nathan just got 2 years for $20M from the Tigers and he's what, 36 years old? But closers have been less valued the last couple offseasons? Is Craig Kimbrel not far superior to Nathan? What about how much Jim Johnson is making this year? Rafael Soriano's deal with the Nationals?

[nsacpi]

Nathan is 39. I would guess Kimbrel would gotten at least 50% more than Nathan per year if he had hit the market.

[zitothebrave]

Closers have very clearly been less valued in the last couple offseasons. I'm sorry if you can't understand that fact.

WE've seen 2 closers hit the market last 2 offseasons. Nathan a 2/20 and Soriano at 2/28. Year before that saw Papelbon sign for 4/50. Every single one of those but Nathon's is cheaper than what Kimbrel will make his first 2 years of FA. They're all way older than Kimbrel will be when he hits FA (well Papelbon not way older, just older)

Kimbrel would have made more money than any closer to hit the market. Would it have been as insane as some here have said (20M a year) not likely but he would have been paid, and paid extremely handsomely.

[Heyward]

John Hart is about to talk about some of the extensions on MLBN, Kimbrel's and others, FWIW.

And yes, Kimbrel would of easily got 15-20 mil in AAV from some team if he hit the market, probably the Yankees to replace Mo.

[AUTiger7222]

John Hart is about to talk about some of the extensions on MLBN, Kimbrel's and others, FWIW.

And yes, Kimbrel would of easily got 15-20 mil in AAV from some team if he hit the market, probably the Yankees to replace Mo.

I was already preparing myself for Kimbrel to be wearing pinstripes in 2015.

[NYCBrave]

John Hart is about to talk about some of the extensions on MLBN, Kimbrel's and others, FWIW.

And yes, Kimbrel would of easily got 15-20 mil in AAV from some team if he hit the market, probably the Yankees to replace Mo.

What'd he say?

[Heyward]

What'd he say?

Basically the new ballpark is the big reason we're able to sign some of these guys to new deals.

And this was talked about trying to sign some of our core to new deals early in the winter.

[yeezus]

The more I think about it, the more I'm surprised Kimbrel and his agent would sign a deal like this. It's 4-5 years, by which time he could be worn out and not get another big pay day.

[thethe]

The more I think about it, the more I'm surprised Kimbrel and his agent would sign a deal like this. It's 4-5 years, by which time he could be worn out and not get another big pay day.

I think its an example of a player who really wanted to stay with his current team. He still got plenty of money but definitely could have gotten more.

[AUTiger7222]

I think its an example of a player who really wanted to stay with his current team. He still got plenty of money but definitely could have gotten more.

I think that was exactly the case, Kimbrel is from Huntsville, grew up a big Braves fan and really wanted to stay with the Braves, and gave the Braves a huge discount to do it. But he also gets enough to give him long-term financial security.