Marlon Byrd likely to leave via free agency

by Eli Greenspan on Aug 25, 2009 12:58 PM EDT Comment 3 comments

The Rangers' crowded outfield situation has not changed in anyway over the course of the season, which could mean the end for impending free agent Marlon Byrd in Texas.

The team controls the contracts of Josh Hamilton, Nelson Cruz, David Murphy and rookie Julio Borbon. Byrd's situation is different. He's making a little more than $3 million this year, which is a lot for a team that's watching every dollar.

Byrd is hitting .283 with 15 home runs and a .325 on-base percentage, 15 points below his career average. He is striking out more and walking less, but both home runs and RBIs are up.

Byrd will likely command 6-8 million dollars annually. The Giants would be a good fit for Byrd. The corner outfield spots are definitely up for grabs, and the Giants probably can't afford a huge contract. Taking a low cost chance on Byrd could really pay off for them.

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Any team that signs him is making a big mistake, his numbers are dramatically worse away from Texas iirc

by McCann's the Man on Aug 25, 2009 3:05 PM EDT reply actions

About a .150 to .200 point different in OPS.

He’s around .900 at home, and between .720 (‘07 and ’09) and .770 (’08) away.

Nevertheless, he plays pretty solid defense and can man center field as well. Granted, he’s entering the decline phase of his career, but $6M per year over three years is probably not a terrible deal.

by jwiscarson on Aug 25, 2009 5:00 PM EDT up reply actions

Given the lack of a strong CF in the upcoming FA class though I doubt he signs to a 3 yr 18M dollar deal, that’d be reasonable, but if anybody is expecting the numbers he’s putting up they’re in for a disappointment

by McCann's the Man on Aug 25, 2009 5:46 PM EDT up reply actions