Philadelphia Phillies’ Ruben Amaro Jr. aims to re-sign Ryan Madson, Jimmy Rollins – MLB Update
The Philadelphia Phillies, after failing to win the World Series this past season, are taking all steps possible to keep their roster intact. Phillies’ general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. asserted that the team will attempt to make lucrative offers to most players in free agency, but a lot will depend on how other teams make their bids.
Amaro laid emphasis on retaining shortstop Jimmy Rollins and closer Ryan Madson, both of whom are seeking long-term contracts. The general manager has a lot of key decisions to make in this offseason, including the appointment of a manger for the next season.
Expressing his thoughts on these players, Amaro said, "We would like to prepare knowing we have both those players back. But obviously there will be some unknowns beyond [today] and our job is to make sure that if in fact these two players are not back or one is and one isn't, we have to make sure we have contingency plans and we'll have several discussions internally of how we'll rework our club."
However, if Rollins and Madson change alliance, the Phillies will be allowed to sign four draft players. If this materialises, the ballclub might be at an advantage for the longer-term. Nonetheless, it remains to be seen how things unfold.
On player, who is certain to leave this ballclub, is starter Roy Oswalt. He did not enjoy an intriguing season and failed to capitalise on his chances in the postseason. Teams have shown interest in him, but it is still not certain as to which club will actually sign him.
There will not be many changes in the bull-pen apart from Oswalt, if he leaves, keeping the defensive strength together for the National League East champions. The Phillies might consider signing more position players, but with Hunter Pence now in their ranks, Amaro is content with the roster.
Before the GM makes any offers, he will have to account for the raises that several players will earn this offseason. Apart from Pence, Cole Hamels and Cliff Lee are expected to receive a hefty boost in the imbursements and thus it will be vital for Amaro to rightly assemble the pieces of puzzle.
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