See exhibit Javier Diaz (http://wisjournal.com/HBD/Pages/Popups/PlayerProfile.aspx?pid=371083 ). He's only 2 seasons removed from an MVP season, but see how far his stats fell in Season 15 while only dipping slightly in ratings points.

At this point I'm leaning towards declining his option and using the 5+ million in savings to sign another guy, but it'd be a shame to lose him if he's going to perform at an All Star level again. Thoughts?

I'd spend the $7.2 and keep him. He won't fall off a cliff next season.

My guess is that he has significant trade value. I'd keep him if only for that reason.

Keep a guy who had less than a .300 OBP for 7.2 mil?That is crazy. Let him go put the 7.2 into something, well. more profitable!!

The drop off in production seems to be more of an aberration because his ratings did not decline that severely. I'd expect something in between the current season and the seasons before.

You can always decline his option and see if he'll resign for something less than $5.4m (which is the difference between the $7.2m option and the 25% buyout of $1.8m). If he wants more than $5.4m but goes unsigned, his demands (salary and years) will drop towards the end of FA and throughout spring training.

Another thing to consider is that he's going to be on the edge of earning a comp pick if you keep him for the final season then let him walk (maybe a Type B). If you let him go now, you get no pick and nothing in trade.

Quote: Originally Posted By zbrent716 on 2/23/2010Another thing to consider is that he's going to be on the edge of earning a comp pick if you keep him for the final season then let him walk (maybe a Type B). If you let him go now, you get no pick and nothing in trade

Would you trade for a 34 year old who is making 7.2 mil and has less than a .300 on base percetage?If the answer is yes, come play in the regulars league. I have a 30 year old for you that you will like.

Quote: Originally Posted By moosep on 2/23/2010

Quote: Originally Posted By zbrent716 on 2/23/2010
Another thing to consider is that he's going to be on the edge of earning a comp pick if you keep him for the final season then let him walk (maybe a Type B). If you let him go now, you get no pick and nothing in trade.

Would you trade for a 34 year old who is making 7.2 mil and has less than a .300 on base percetage?If the answer is yes, come play in the regulars league. I have a 30 year old for you that you will like

Depending on what my $$ looked like for a season, if he was available for less in trade than I'd expect to get with a Type B comp pick, I might.

between the engine change for power,his power rating dropping and the $7.2 mil price tag i would decline the option

my personal opinion is there is a noticeable difference once someone drops below the low 90's on power and into the 80's - combined with the engine change and his age i don't think he's worth it

i would be shocked if you could not find a similar or better player for similar or less money in FA that is younger and not declining