A-Rod, and the offseason

Clearly, the biggest story this offseason is where Alex Rodriguez goes. A number of teams are considered contenders for his services. The Cubs, Dodgers, Angels, and Mets have to be considered the leaders in the sweepstakes, while darkhorses like the Red Sox and Yankees(never count them out, no matter what they say) remain in the background.

My hunch is that he ends up in Anaheim, despite Arte Moreno's proclamations. For one thing, they met with Scott Boras this week. If you're not willing to pay Rodriguez what he asking for, why bother having a meeting with his agent? Second, the Angels have alot of payroll coming off the books in 2008 and 2009. In 2008 the contract of Bartolo Colon($14 million in 2007), and the financial obligations to Shea Hillenbrand($6.5 million), and Hector Carrasco ($2.75 million) come off the books, freeing up $23.25 million. Assuming A-Rod receives something between 25 and 33 million, thats an extra 2-10 million. In 2009, Garret Anderson and his $12 million freed up(they have a $15 million option with a $3 million buyout, I cant imagine they would exercise it). Plus, Orlando Cabrera's $8 million salary is freed up, and with the Angels farm system being as strong as it is, they have plenty of internal candidates(Brandon Wood, Erick Aybar) to replace him.

The benefits to having A-Rod are plenty. Vlad would have protection in the lineup finally, and given the way the lineup forces the issue, that can only help. The merchandise(jersies and what not) would sell itself, and although there wouldnt be a boost in home ticket sales(where the Angels finished 3rd in the majors), having A-Rod would boost their road game attendance(where they finished 17th in the majors in average road attendance).

So dont be shocked if the Angels are right in the middle of the A-Rod negotiations.