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"Andrew, relax my friend," his agent said with a laugh. "I didn’t say this was bad news. In fact, I think you’ll find this is fantastic news. Philadelphia called back this morning. They put one more offer on the table for you, and I’ll recommend that you jump all over this one. How does five years at $15.7 million per year sound? Oh, and a nice little bonus of $750,000 if you win the Cy Young. You get to stay in Philly for a long time, just like you want.
“Merry Christmas and congratulations my friend. We just made you about $80 million. You’re set for life, Andrew.”
At this point, Zarzour wished he was sitting down after all. He was weak in the knees. Eighty million dollars. Eighty freakin’ million. Just think of all the people he could bless in the world with $80 million. His family, his church, his high school, mission groups that he already supported like World Harvest and Compassion International, the neighborhoods in Philadelphia that needed ball fields and better gyms. His kids, if he was every blessed to have them some day…
“Andrew, are you still there? You haven’t said anything for 30 seconds.”
Zarzour struggled to find the right thing to say. His brother was home from war. His mom was feeling much better. His friends were all doing great. And now he gets a nice contract to stay in Philadelphia for a long time (good Lord willing of course).
“Hey Z, anything you want to say to the press? The team wants to get a release out ASAP once they get your OK on this deal. I told them I’d send them a quote or two.”
Andrew paused for a few more seconds. “Just say that this is a dream come true and that I am more committed than ever to helping bring a championship to Philadelphia. I can’t wait for the season to start. I wish it started right now.”
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