C.C. Sabathia, A.J. Burnett, Francisco Rodriguez, Manny Ramirez, even Jason Giambi and Orlando Cabrera, played very well in 2008, the final year of their respective contracts.
While there are certainly examples of players who did not perform at a high level in the final year of their contract, and allowing that the players mentioned above would be expected to play well in any year, I am a big believer in the contract year and its positive effect on a player’s production.
It makes sense that players a season away from entering the free agent market would approach the final year of their contract with more motivation than normal; spend their off-season working out a little harder, eating a little healthier, addressing injuries with a greater sense of urgency, etc.
The Angels boast several players in the final years of their contracts: Vladimir Guerrero, Chone Figgins and John Lackey will all become free agents after the 2009 season, provided the Angels do not extend them in-season.
Let us hope they put up the type of performances in 2009 that earn them the paydays they’re seeking in 2010. If they do, the 2009 season should result in another division title and playoff appearance for the Halos.
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