Crawford, Rays Stop Extension Talks Unitl Winter

[Diehardmagicfan]

http://baseball.realgm.com/src_wiretap_archives/19054/20100225/crawford_rays_stop_extension_talks_until_winter/

What are the chances that they resign him because i thought i read an article about the rays wanting to lower their salary. So what are the chances of him getting resigned?

[craig01]

I think a lot depends on how well Crawford keeps playing.

If Crawford continues to be a near dominant player i think he stays, as he's a cornerstone of the franchise.

If he's not particularly healthy, the Rays stumble, or he slides in performance then there's some possibility that he's moved. Crawford would bring a heavy return given his age and track record.

Sternberg has said he's going to bring payroll down 10-15 million, but he can still do that by unloading some other contracts. He absolutely wants Crawford and Pena to stay.

Worst case, if Crawford gets dealt, there is plenty of help to partially replace him.

The Rays farm system is loaded everywhere and at every level.

This is going to be a very good year for the Rays as long as they stay healthy.