That’s not a misprint.
The Tigers can still afford whatever they want, it appears – even an $18 million, 38-year-old outfielder.
Reports persist that the Tigers are “very interested” in Torii Hunter, who will turn 38 in the middle of next season.
Hunter is coming off his best season in years, maybe even his best season ever, so it doesn’t look as if age is catching up to him.
Bottom line: He’s still a fine player and probably would be an excellent addition to the Tigers.
But his average salary the last four years has been more than $18 million and, after the season he had, it’s not about to plunge.
I know the Tigers have a lot of payroll coming off the books, but they’re also facing several high-priced arbitration scenarios.
You can make the argument that they can afford Hunter. You can make argument that he’ll be too high-priced.
I don’t think any conventional fiscal debate applies any more to the Tigers. though. They identify what they want, a la Prince Fielder, and go get it – because they can afford it.
The fact that they seem to be in on Hunter at such a price bodes well for keeping Anibal Sanchez, too.
Dollars won’t be an obstacle. They never are anymore.
Enjoy it, folks. It won’t always be that way. The Tigers want Torii Hunter, they know the price, and don’t appear to be bothered by it.
If that’s not general manager paradise, I don’t know what is.
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