Miguel Cabrera is having one heck of a “pay” day.
Sources indicate that Cabrera, 30, and the Tigers have agreed to a 10-year contract extension worth around $292 million. The contract has two vesting options, which could bring Cabrera more than $330 million over 12 years. Cabrera's contract would be the largest in Major League history. Alex Rodriguez's 10-year, $275 million contract with the Yankees is currently the largest.
Since Cabrera joined the Tigers in 2008, the two-time MVP has averaged 38 home runs, 123 RBI and a .327 batting average each season.
However is this a smart move for the Tigers? Recent memory (and common sense) would suggest otherwise. Albert Pujols, who signed a 10-year $242 million contract with the Angels prior to 2012, hasn't produced to the level expected by the team's front office and fans. Pujols is averaging 24 home runs, 84 RBI and hitting at .275 during his first two seasons with the Angels.
What about Alex Rodriguez? He signed a 10-year, $275 million contract with the Yankees prior to the 2008 season. One World Series title and two steroid accusations later, Rodriguez has become one of the most hated men in New York baseball history.
Take it a step forward. Clayton Kershaw signed a $215 million contract extension with the Dodgers this off-season. Kershaw may end up on the DL after his first start due to back issues. It is too soon to tell how well Kershaw will perform, but his injury is adding to the list of reasons why players aren't worth hundreds of millions of dollars.
Is Cabrera a great player? Yes, if he were to retire today, Cabrera is a first-ballot Hall of Famer in my book. But giving $292 million to a player, even one of Cabrera's caliber, on the wrong side of 30 is a bad move.
There is another thing fans should keep in mind. Cabrera played in 148 games last season, the fewest since his rookie season in 2003.
The Tigers shouldn't be writing a check like that to Cabrera. No player older than 30 is worth that kind of money.
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