Liberty Ball

The Phillies signed centerfielder Aaron Rowand to a one year deal for $4.35 million and by doing so, they’ll avoid arbitration with him.  Rowand had a solid season when he was playing but he missed over 50 games when he ran into the centerfield wall trying to make a play.  We’re now three years removed from Rowand’s great season in 2004 when he broke out for the White Sox and his rate stats for 2005 and 2006, while still decent, might be what we should expect from the centerfielder.

The money is about right though.  I don’t neccesarily think the team is getting a bargain but we’re definitely not overpaying either.  And I think one more year is prudent before the Phillies try to lock Rowand up long term.