Smilin' Ken Rosenthal has an update and a news flash, apparently, that the probable availability of Cliff Lee could really hurt the Roy Sweepstakes.
Lee, who turns 32 on Aug. 30, is a year younger than Oswalt and a better pitcher since the start of 2008. He also is signed to a more attractive contract, adding to his appeal if the Mariners decide to trade him.
Any team that landed Lee would be obligated only for the rest of his $9 million salary this season. Oswalt, meanwhile, is due the rest of his $15 million salary for 2010, $16 million in ‘11 and a $2 million buyout in ’12...
...With Oswalt, you just get Oswalt – at an inflated rate.
I'll be honest, I'd rather have Cliff Lee than Roy, and the case for Lee is pretty strong, which is why Ed Wade has a lot on his plate right now. I would hope that the first attractive offer that rolls in is accepted, but this is a case of supply and demand, and Lee is a better financial option for many more teams.
We didn't come out here to play tiddlywinks, son.
-Hal Smith
