MLBTR Originals
A look back at the original reporting and analysis found on MLBTR the last seven days:
Jeff Todd analyzed free agent contracts signed by starting pitchers*after having turned 31 years of age and opined it will be difficult for James Shields*(who will be 33 in December) to break the five-year, $100MM threshold on the open market and is more likely to land a four-year, $75-80MM pact*with a vesting/club option or even an opt-out clause included to sweeten the deal.* *
Tim Dierkes examined the*40-man roster players who have less than*five years service time and are out of mi**r league options*(compiled through MLBTR's sources)*in the*NL Central,*AL Central*(with an assist from Steve Adams), and NL West.*
MLBTR kicked off the*Offseason in Review ****** with Tim's look at the Cubs,*Steve's assessment of the Brewers and Marlins, and Jeff's recap of the Diamondbacks.*
MLBTR learned the reported $24K salary the*Rakuten Golden Eagles will pay Loek Van Mil*is **t for the entire season, but the month of March. The right-hander will earn $150K in 2014 plus performance bonuses.*