Red Sox Might Have to Move Fast on David Ortiz's Contract Option

by Knox Bardeen

Filed under: Red Sox, MLB Rumors

The Boston Red Sox hold a $12.5 million option to extend David Ortiz's contract into the 2011 season. Unlike in years past, the team will have to make the decision very quickly, according to the Boston Globe, as the Sox have three days from the end of the World Series to decide.

After struggling -- by his standards -- for two seasons, Ortiz eclipsed the 100-RBI mark this season. Ortiz also belted 32 home runs, which led the team.

The soon-to-be 35-year-old designated hitter could be asked to take less than $12.5 million. Since he led all designated hitters in home runs and was second to Vladimir Guerrero in RBI, it may be tough to convince the slugger to take much of a pay cut.

Another negotiating tactic, according to the Globe, may be to add an extra year onto Ortiz's contract on top of the 2011 option year.

The Red Sox have typically not given aging veterans lengthy contracts, even when the hardcore stance by management has been very unpopular. So for Ortiz to get a two-year deal he'd likely have to give one heck of a home-team discount to the Red Sox.

 

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