2051-0001: Talons Spend Big Money on Aging, Veteran Pitcher In Perhaps the Worst Offseason Ever to Actually do That

[jiminyhopkins]

Phoenix, AZ--

Everyone has been impressed with the new surprise crop of Eastern European free agent pitchers that magically showed up on the lists this winter.

But not the Talons.

Because why invest on some new, 70 or 80 rated pitcher in his early 20's that can become a cornerstone of the franchise? Nah, said the Talons. Better to throw all of that cash (60 million worth over 5 years) at some old guy and hope his arm doesn't fall off. Which it will, once the Labrum Fairy makes her annual rounds.

Still, Amayas Moelling is pretty decent as far as aging veterans go. Having amassed nearly 40 WAR by age 32, the veteran righthander looks to pair up with Aki Kondo to form a formidable duo at the top of the Talons' rotation. Key to the deal was Moelling's willingness to take only $7.4 million this season to help Phoenix stay under the cap. That fact, plus some options at the back end, make it a palatable deal for the Talons, despite younger, more talented pitchers signing elsewhere for similar overall money.

Because why change? Clearly the Talons' strategy the last decade has been spot on, and absolutely should continue!

[GoldenOne]

What's the over/under on how long before Moelling blows out an elbow?

[woods]

Moelling was quietly a pretty solid pitcher for me last year. Your mileage may vary.

[CTBrewCrew]

Im impressed @jiminyhopkins youve gone back to the 000x numbering scheme. Looking forward to TN # 1000 Go get ‘em tiger!