B.J. Upton’s contract with Atlanta Braves sets standard price for outfielders - MLB Update
Agreement between B.J. Upton and Atlanta Braves has set a base price for outfielders, which can be critical during negotiations by other free agents with their prospective clubs.
Five-year deal worth $75.25 million has spread a wave of happiness for some players. At the same time, it has discouraged other organisations to pursue free agents, because of the high benchmark price.
The likes of Josh Hamilton and Michael Bourn can take heart from the fact that their bargaining power has increased to some extent after the conclusion of this deal.
In contrast, the Washington Nationals, which were earlier interested to obtain Bourn, will be stepping back from the progress made up until now in the negotiations.
One indication of this has come in the form of the trade, which brought centre fielder Denard Span on their roster in exchange for prospect Alex Meyer to Minnesota Twins.
Span can remove worries of the Nationals in the outfield and can also act as a lead-off hitter.
Bourn will be aware of the developments taking place and how some of the clubs might be focusing on other options in the face of a higher price in the outfield market.
The Phillies are one of the few teams remaining that still need a centre fielder. Bourn can look to sign an agreement with them. The fact he fulfils their criteria makes him an ideal candidate to find a place on their roster.
Arguably, Bourn is a best defensive player in the National League. The team aspiring to reclaim their lost Division title in the National League East can draw benefits from his services.
He can go a long way in making the expedition of Philadelphia next year a successful one.
It will be interesting to see how much the Phillies are willing to pay him. Upton was also sought by Philadelphia but the deal was not clinched owing to unknown reasons.
Bourn, who holds a better record in terms of defence than Upton, will certainly ask for something more from the Phillies.
Michael has entered into such a phase of his career where he can be expected to deliver terrific shows consistently.
If the Phillies hire him, they will certainly have an individual in their ranks that can play a major role in their wins.
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