Sports Business Journal - Major League Baseball teams signed 94 free agents this offseason, but the average value of a contract decreased nearly 15 percent.
The average overall contract value declined from $13.35 million in 2008 to $11.38 million in 2009.
In addition, the average contract length was down about 12 percent to 2.43 years.
"I don't think there is any question that the owners have shown more discipline this offseason in signing free agents," said Marc Ganis, president of SportsCorp Ltd., which consults with MLB clubs on financial matters. "The reason they have to show discipline is the uncertainty in the economy.
http://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/article/62158
Interesting read, I could see contracts dropping even more next season as well.
Money in baseball is ridiculous in my opinion.
I'm surprised it went down with the Yankees throwing around so much money at everyone.