Super agent Boris Cott has officially fired the first salvo in negotiations with the Duluth Warriors over the contract extension of all-star pitcher Dave Barker.  “It is very simple,” explained Cott in a recent BTN interview.  “The Warriors need to put their money where their mouths are.  Dave Barker is one of the game’s premier starting pitchers in the PEBA.  Never pitched less than 180 innings.  Top ten in WAR three of the last four years.  The team’s winningest pitcher in history, coming off a 21-5 season.
“$20 million a year should be no problem for the team.  They gave Bingo Suarez a dump truck full of cash last year.  They gave Davis Sutherland $17 million dollars a year just last month.  Renovations for Doyle Buhl Stadium are already underway to add additional revenue to the team.  There is no way they can justify low balling the best pitcher in franchise history.”
When asked what might happen if the team does not meet those guidelines with their offer, Cott didn’t hesitate with his answer.  “Simple – we’ll demand $30 million a year instead.”

The former first round pick and two-time all-star has a lifetime 92-46 record with a 3.32 ERA.  Barker also won his first SL All-Leather Award in 2019 as the league’s best defensive pitcher.  He is looking to extend a 4-year, $22 million dollar contract signed prior to the 2017 season.

The team refused to comment about the situation when prompted by Unga Bunga staff.  The team also refused to comment regarding any potential negotiations with closer Ben Thomas, who also is only signed through the 2020 season.