Edinson Volquez signs one-year deal with Cincinnati Reds
Edinson Volquez has signed a one year deal worth $1.625 million. The Cincinnati Reds have been the club to get the deal done as their interest in avoiding arbitration was the primary objective for the club, following a dismal winter break.
The team is looking as strong as last year. With almost no new player coming to the roster in the offseason period, it’s believed that there will be a tough challenge to subdue, once the National League kicks into high gear in April.
The Central division in the league is looking strong and competitive. There are 5 other teams looking to make their mark on the game and they may do so if the Reds let go of their focus for even a single game.
The team faces the Pittsburgh Pirates, Houston Astros, Chicago Cubs, St. Louis Cardinals and the Milwaukee Brewers in their bid to reach this year’s playoffs.
Nevertheless, Volquez’s signing means one important thing and it indicates that the club is keeping its faith in last year’s roster. The expectation to deliver may look like a problem though as the side is warranted by the increasing pressure put on them
by the fans.
Nevertheless, signing Volquez does put one immediate agenda to rest. The club has avoided arbitration again, which is an amazing accomplishment, this year. Volquez had initially tabled a $2 million offer but the club countered with $1.2 million.
The new deal looks like a mutual bid and there is $50,000 performance bonus included as well.
Volquez has been on the recovery road lately. The Reds General Manager, Walt Jocketty, has talked about his performance recently, citing a return to form as a wish for the team.
"I would hope so", Jocketty said. "I think without the injury, he would've continued to pitch like he did in 2008. We know we've got (Bronson) Arroyo, Volquez and (Johnny) Cueto and we'll see where they are ranked at Spring Training. We'll see what kind
of shape they're in and the progress they've made and stuff like that".
In regards to arbitration, Walt decided to comment on the process and the expectations involved.
"Your goal is to get them done, but you don't want to do a bad deal", Jocketty said. "They all were good deals for us and good for the players".
The team looks to be in good shape at the moment. It will be interesting to see how the club fares in the near future.
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