We Got Wood - 46.04 - Portland Gets "Younger"

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In another push to boost the overall defense of the club for 2046, and also score more runs, the Porltand Lumberjacks have struck a creative deal with Millard Younger for his services. Younger posted a 3.6 WAR a season ago with division rival Long Beach.

"We are excited to add Millard to the squad" commented Kate Fiscus. "Corner outfield wasn't a position we targeted at the start of the free agent process but with some money to spend we decided an upgrade at any position wasn't a bad thing. We solidified our infield defense quite a bit with some earlier moves and figured helping the outfield some wasn't a bad thing. We're excited about the addition of Millard and the flexibility our roster has now on the offensive and defensive side of things."

Younger, while not a gold glover or anything, will be a step up in the field from Werner McConnell, Jr.. Fiscus didn't comment on the overflow of bats now on the roster and who might play where, but some speculation is McConnel and Andrew Gallagher may split some time against right handed pitching as the team's DH with Younger taking over in right field. It could also mean that last year's top rookie, Juan Hernandez may have to spend some time back in Triple-A since he has options.

"All viable options. And there are others we'll explore as well" added Fiscus. "We have several routes to look into."

Another question will be whether Portland uses Younger full time or mainly as a platoon guy against right handed pitching. Marcos Gonzalez and Bobby Horne showed their ability to perform well in a limited role last season in the corner spots so we'll really have to see what the club does come April with a log jammed outfield.

As for Younger's contract, it is both player and team friendly. Younger gets a player friendly $20 million this season and then a team friendly $5 million in 2047. After that, both have options for handling the rest. Younger can opt-out after 2047 or stay in Portland for just under $9 million in 2048. The final 2 years of the deal are team options for slightly over $10 million.

"We tried to structure this deal to benefit the team" said Fiscus. "We had a lot of cap room this season without needing to spend it on other free agents so we front loaded the deal for Millard. Next season, his dip in salary opens up flexibility for us again. His salary drops and we lose some other big contracts on our payroll. If some young guys develop and our pitching can be like we hope, we might be able to stick our foot in the Pacific door in a few seasons."