OOTP Developments Forums - View Single Post - Expansion Revision: 1998 Devil Rays and beyond

Moriarty9 · 01-07-2009, 11:46 AM

Konerko inks extension
Devil Rays avoid arbitration
November 12, 1998

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. - Although the team could have let Paul Konerko fight for every penny he wanted through arbitration, the Tampa Bay Devil Rays signed a two-year extension, with a team option for the third season, on their young slugger.

Konerko, 22, made less than $250,000 this past season while hitting .285 with 22 home runs and 82 RBI in 128 games, making him a fantastic bargain for the Devil Rays. They showed their appreciation with a new contract that will pay Konerko $1.35 million in 1999 and $1.37 million in 2000, with a $1.5 million team option for 2001. If Konerko wins the MVP in any of those seasons, he would receive a $1 million bonus.

Konerko spent the majority of his time at third base this season, though he started 25 games at first base and 16 games in left field, appearing as the DH six times. He may see more time at first base next year if the team does not re-sign Will Clark.

01-07-2009, 11:46 AM	#75 (permalink)
Moriarty9 All Star Starter Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: Massachusetts Posts: 1,855 Thanks: 9 Thanked 3x in 3 posts	Konerko inks extension Devil Rays avoid arbitration November 12, 1998 ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. - Although the team could have let Paul Konerko fight for every penny he wanted through arbitration, the Tampa Bay Devil Rays signed a two-year extension, with a team option for the third season, on their young slugger. Konerko, 22, made less than $250,000 this past season while hitting .285 with 22 home runs and 82 RBI in 128 games, making him a fantastic bargain for the Devil Rays. They showed their appreciation with a new contract that will pay Konerko $1.35 million in 1999 and $1.37 million in 2000, with a $1.5 million team option for 2001. If Konerko wins the MVP in any of those seasons, he would receive a $1 million bonus. Konerko spent the majority of his time at third base this season, though he started 25 games at first base and 16 games in left field, appearing as the DH six times. He may see more time at first base next year if the team does not re-sign Will Clark.