Curt Schilling resigned with the Boston Red Sox today for $8 million dollars plus a lot more, potentially, in incentives. He turns 41 next week, so in that regard, $8M+ seems like the Sox got ripped off. But given that he is (a) no ordinary 41-year-old, (b) clearly still a dominating postseason performer, and (c) easily the best free agent starter on the market, I'd say the Sox did just fine.What I find, curious I guess, is one particular clause in Schilling's deal. It says he can get an extra $2 million dollars next season if he successfully passes 6 monthly weigh-ins.
My question is, why would a veteran starting pitcher, who clearly needs to rely on conditioning, endurance, and location at this stage in his career, need financial motivation to stay fit?
The story I saw didn't say what Schilling needs to weigh to earn his bonuses, but on his ESPN.com bio page, he's listed at 6'5'', 235 pounds. It also says his middle name is "Montague." Who knew?
1 comment:
i think i saw he said he was surprised by how his body reacted last year. i guess in previous years he was able to shake off the winter weight easier and with less side effects but now that he is getting older it is more difficult.
also, i dont know if it is as much motivation for schilling as it is protection for the red sox. they are willing to shell out the money if he is performing. and they probably think him being out of shape is a form of an indicator. thats not to say if he is in shape that he will pitch well, but it is to say if he isnt in shape that he will pitch poorly in which case they dont want to waste money.
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