MLB Free Agents 2012: 7 Contract Clauses to Convince Jimmy Rollins to Stay
December 7, 2011 by Bobby Yost
Filed under Fan News
Despite reports that meetings between the Philadelphia Phillies and Jimmy Rollins’ agent have not gone well, I believe it is only a matter of time before Jimmy Rollins is back in the fold. Even though there are not many serious competitors for his services, Rollins has significant leverage. His agent undoubtedly will use the Phillies’ lack of reliable replacements in landing a good deal for his client.
While I still doubt he’ll get five years guaranteed, I would not be surprised to see his agent out-negotiate Ruben Amaro. Seeing the deals Amaro’s given out over the last few years, he’s closer to Chumlee from Pawn Stars than Rick at the negotiating table.
Even though Rollins has leverage, Amaro can and should be creative in signing a deal that doesn’t hurt his club in the future. Whether or not he will use such devices is an entirely different question.