Hi, I'm targeting an IFA who wants a 3 year MLB contract.

What's the difference between a 3 year MLB contract and a 1 year minor league contract?

If he signs a MLB contract, will his 4 year arbitration clock start ticking? Or only once he has 4 years minor league experience?

Once he signs do I need to add him to 40 man roster? Can I still play him in the minor leagues without any penalty?

Any help would be appreciated

The major league contract allows him to make more money. You can still play him in the minors without adding him to your 40 just as you would any other player.

Ahh, I see. Thanks!

Posted by marble26 on 4/8/2011 12:19:00 AM (view original):
The major league contract allows him to make more money. You can still play him in the minors without adding him to your 40 just as you would any other player.

I'm pretty certain you need to add the player to your 40 man roster if you sign him to a Major League contract.
You can remove him if he clears waivers (I would recommend doing this after the transaction deadline so he can go on revokable waivers).
His arb clock will only start once you promote him to ML.

Yes his arb clock won't start but his options will start to be used.

When an IFA's signability reads:

" May sign if the deal is right. If not, he'll continue to play outside the States."

What does that mean?

Posted by nauds3000 on 4/9/2011 5:02:00 PM (view original):
When an IFA's signability reads:

" May sign if the deal is right. If not, he'll continue to play outside the States."

What does that mean?

It means he is asking for more money than a comparable prospect that wants to play in America would.  He will still sign, in the end, if someone meets/exceeds his demands.