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01/12/2003 Archived Entry: "1/12/03 MLB Recent Signings"
1/12/03 MLB Recent Signings by Bart Ewing
Recently the Braves signed Rafael Furcal to a 1 year 2.2 million dollar deal.
Yesterday the Royals signed Desi Relaford to a 2 year 1.8 million dollar deal.
The Braves played this smartly with Furcal. I am quite intrigued that the deal is for only 1 year. This could simply be a way to get past arbitration for this year and being gouged or maybe not. If you look deeper though, you see this as a true contract year for Furcal and his .320 on base %. I also point out the excellent winter league performance of once number 1 prospect Wilson Betemit. Betemit not only hit over .300 with some pop but also showed much improved plate discipline. Keeper league beware of Furcal, his stay in Atlanta may not be much longer.
Give the Royals some credit, (although they could have had Ramon Martinez for less) Relaford fills a huge need at a good price. In AL only leagues this could be a huge steal. I am not saying Relaford is an elite SS. I am saying that the deeper the league you are in the potential for Relaford at a utility spot could be quite productive. As a utility player he should get the usual 200-250 at bats. Factor in now Carlos Febles at 2b (injury history and performance history), Angel Berroa at SS, (is he truly ready for full time position?-NO!), and Joe Randa at 3rd, (do we really think his contract won't be gone by June 1?- NO!) and how hard is it to factor in 500+ at bats for Relaford? He can hit .270-.300 based on last 2 years, could easily steal 20+ bases especially with Tony Pena at the helm and double digit homeruns is not out of the question. In many leagues you will get him as an end game pick under $5.
By Bart Ewing
