9-News 38.005 – Savage Inks With Nine

[RonCo]

When newly minted YS9 GM Ron Collins first arrived, he immediately found himself embroiled in the public firefight that was the EBA Rule 6 draft of Alfredo “Savage” Salazar. The fresh-faced Collins vowed to fans that he would do everything in his power to pair the blossoming superstar with then fan fave Luis “Tuna” Baca, another Rule 6er. The team selected topping rights to Salazar, then fought valiantly to protect them, but to no avail as Savage went to Madison.

Now, 13 years later, Collins—now a bit more battle weary, and suffering slings and arrow from fans for other misdemeanors—has fulfilled his promise, signing Salazar to a three season pact that pays the 36-year old $16M this season, and $22M spread over the next two. There are parachutes galore here: Salazar can opt out after this year, and the team has options for the next two. In addition, the deal includes bonus money if Salazar meets various performance levels.

FAN REACTION SWIFT

Fans immediately stormed the team’s gift shops and clogged its websites, all looking to acquire “Savage” jerseys. One shop received notice to pull the garments from the shelf when it was learned that the deal hadn’t yet been signed, only to get the go ahead three hours later.

“It was cool to be the first to wear that gear,” said Harold Jennings, a tool and die enthusiast. “I can say I was Savage before there was a savage!”

Season ticket sales immediately bumped.

HOW MUCH IS IN THE TANK?

Under the hoopla, of course, is whether Alfredo Salazar (36) has anything left in the tank. Scouts are convinced he does, but he finished last season with a tepid .232 batting average, posting only 2 WAR. He’s now 4 seasons out from his last 5 WAR performance, and will turn 37 in May.

“I think I can help the team,” Salazar said. “I almost made it to Yellow Springs back in the early days, so it will be great to play in Utopia Field.”

[bcslouck]

I'm not happy about this.

[felipe]

I think this will be a boondoogle

[RonCo]

I'm not happy about this.

I saw you had the upper hand I had to beat.