That's What Cheesehead: 37.29 - Vazquez Stays on for 3 More Years

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Much like the news of Mario Gonzalez signing a 1-year extension, the decision to keep Ken Vazquez on for 3 more years went pretty much un-noticed by many around the league and within the Madison Wolves' fanbase. Rightfully so most likely when you consider Ken isn't exactly a household name, but he is a name that the Wolves front office was important enough to sign on for 3 more seasons at $1.6 million per season.

"Ken is a vital member of the pitching staff" said Wolves manager Millard Davis when news broke that Vazquez had signed an extension with the team. "His versatility this season was huge all year. We'll need more of that next year I bet."

Vazquez pitched 109.2 innings pitched in 2037 with a 6-6 record, 5.66 ERA, and 1.71 WHIP. Hardly numbers worth writing home about and perhaps even numbers not worthy of a contract extension approaching $2 million. But as mentioned, Vazquez's versatility makes him valuable to the Wolves organization. Ken pitched in 59 games last season with 18 of those being starts. He was used in a variety of rolls last season that included lefty specialist, long relief, middle relief, and as the team's fill-in starter when his services were needed there. In fact, his last 5 outings of the season were made as starts. And while his pitch count limited him to few innings, he did go 23 innings over 5 starts in which he allowed just 4 earned runs.

While the stats indicate he wasn't very good, his overall 1.1 WAR indicates he was more valuable than the average replacement. And it was that added value, along with the versatility he provides, as to why the team opted to retain Ken's services.

And oh yeah, he's a lefty.