Cha-Cha-Cha-Changes

[DanD]

10/24/2008: Arlington, VA – With the Arlington season finally at a close, there are plenty of decisions to be made by management. The team was over budget by more than $2 million this past season. However, the team was able to make a significant profit. With the season not officially at a close, an anonymous front office member thinks the team will clear more than $6 million in profits.

There are several significant players going into arbitration including: 3B Kiril Nijenboer, 2B Pablo Souza, OF Ignacio Carrillo and 5th Starter Armando Pineda. 3B/DH Ernest Cunningham will be 39 by the start of next season. He is due to make $8.3 million next year. However, he could retire or decline his player option. Part-time starting pitcher Gerbrand Bonne will be 38 next month. He is currently signed for $1.5 million next year. RF Travis Bunch has a player option next year. Unfortunately, he has not deserved his $7.2 million dollar team option being picked up by the Arlington front office. Closer Peter Goodwin will be an expensive free agent this off-season. With impeccable stats for a closer (42/46 saves, 2.29 ERA in 71 innings), Goodwin will be very difficult to sign for a reasonable number. Rumor has it he is asking for 2 years at $13 million in total.


In addition to these possible changes, owner and general manager John Whitacre has been busy. Rumors abound about possible deals with Canton, Manchester and Tempe. “We are dealing from a position of strength and are looking to rebuild our minor league pitching. Once the season ends, you will see a bevy of transactions,” said Mr. Whitacre.


We are looking forward to see what this off-season holds.