Why are we so excited about paying over 30 age pitchers who are on their decline 25 Million for 7-8m years? To me that seems a huge deal breaker. If they would accept 2-3 year contracts, I think they would all be signed by now. I doubt if we are going to see many more contracts over 150 Million unless for an elite player (i.e. Harper).
Second question: I don't see their original terams making huge efforts to sign these free agents at the dollars/years the free agents want either (Cubs/Dodgers/Rangers). Have they already made the value determination of "Not Worth It?
Third Point: I remember how happy everyone was when we signed Felix and Cano to their current contracts. That happiness sure seems long gone now as their long-term contracts appear to be heavy anchors around our (budget) necks. Those long term contracts definitely don't look so good now.
Fourth Point: Jerry apparently feels that he has two possible Breakout pitchers (Marco and Moore) and even a third in Miranda. I am old enough and remember very well Kansas City going to the 1984 Playoffs and 1985 World Series with three (3!) 1st/2nd year pitchers (Saberhagen/Gubicza/Jackson). Yes, lightning struck and KC was fortunate. Who knows for us? Seattle seems to have very little experience moving rookies into lineups and being patient with them as they go through their growing/adjusting pains. To me this is very obviously a Scout call, and NOT a SABR call.
I actually support Jerry's decision at this time. The only option I would consider would be if we could get one really good pitcher on a one or even two year contract.
Go ahead and Flame me.