Late Innings

I wanted to comment on the news coming out of Texas, in regards to Rangers’ shortstop Michael Young. Young demanded a trade last month, mainly out of irritation that he’s being asked to move to third base. The position is currently being manned by Hank Blalock, whose 6.2MM option was picked up by the club after the season ended. As to whether the presence of young (and defensively-talented) Elvis Andrus played a role or not, it’s yet to be seen. Still Young regressed with his bat in 2008, hitting .284/.346/.442. He however won the Gold Glove at his position last season.

I recall his name being mentioned at the Winter Meetings last month, and there were little takers. I’m not sure if Jon Daniels was asking too much for him or not, however if there’s one thing that would steer any interested team away, it would be Young’s albatross of a contract, which kicks in this upcoming season. Young made roughly 6MM last season (counting All Star bonuses and such), however his salary will jump up to 16MM for the 2009 season. He’ll be paid that figure throughout the duration of his contract, which runs through 2013. In either case, that’s a hefty pill for any team to swallow, even if 15MM of his contract is being deferred by the Rangers. Texas will have to eat some money to make a deal happen.

Texas could also keep Young, however with his disgruntlement and salary, I’m sure that he’ll be moved at some point in the next few years or so. Then again, Young will have to wait for the economy to improve, since very few teams (outside of the Yankees) are going to take on that payroll commitment in the current state. Besides, the Rangers’ system is incredibly deep at the moment. We all know that Andrus is on his way, however I’m very curious to see the impact that Netfali Feliz will bring to their (currently abysmal) pitching staff.