The Philadelphia Phillies had reportedly signed a contract with free agent closer Ryan Madson, according to NBC’s Hardball Talk and other news sources.
The deal was worth $44 million over four years and included an option for a fifth year at $13 million. However, Phillies GM Ruben Amaro, Jr. said the deal was never official, and Bob Brookover of Philly.com says progress between Madson and the Phillies has stalled.
Reports have also stated the Phillies are looking heavily at Boston Red Sox free agent closer Jonathan Papelbon, a four-time All-Star who is coming off a typically strong season (31 saves, 2.94 ERA).
Madson would be a much better option for the Phillies, as he relies on a changeup while Papelbon is a fly ball pitcher who uses his fastball predominantly. Either way, Amaro is on record as saying he wants a veteran closer in 2012.
The free agent market is vast and full of talented closers – Madson, Papelbon, Heath Bell, Francisco Cordero, Francisco Rodriguez, even Joe Nathan. Amaro has a proven history of getting big-name players, and if he wants a veteran closer for next year, he’ll probably get it.
Buy MLB Playoff Tickets | Buy Philadelphia Phillies Apparel[...] This means Ryan Madson won’t be back in Philly, since he will command a similar salary to Papelbon, and the Phillies won’t pay that for an eighth-inning guy. The Phillies had reportedly locked up Madson for four years, $44 million plus a $13 million option for a fifth year, but GM Ruben Amaro, Jr. said those reports were false. [...]
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