Saito Lands (Or Is He Given A Golden Parachute In Advance?)

Hi gang!

As you have probably noticed, we’re in a bit of a lull in the Braves news cycle right now.  One thing of interest, though, is that Takashi Saito has landed a gig for 2011.  He landed with the Brewers on a one year deal that could pay him north of $3 million, based on incentives.

Now, if the contract is for something like $10,000 base salary with the rest based on incentives, then I’m on board.  If, on the other hand, it’s for something like $2.8 million with the rest incentives, then I think it might be time for someone to bring in the screwdrivers and start tightening down the loose screws!

I guess it does put in perspective the Braves scrap-heap reliever signings.  Honestly, though, I was always taught that two wrongs don’t make a right.  There is something wrong, in my opinion, when relievers who are as old as these guys are, with the number of question marks they have, are being given these kinds of deals.  It has been proven over and over that you don’t have to pay big dollars to get big middle-relief production.  In fact, you get ’em cheap, let them have a good year, then watch the Evil Empire overpay them the next year!!!  A million year, three million there, pretty soon you’re talking real money.

Thoughts?