(AP) Polanco hit .311 with 37 home runs and 285 RBI with the Tigers.
Whether they're looking to shed some payroll weight, or remain in contention in the immediate future, we'll know more about the Detroit Tiger's plans for 2010 by the end of the day.
The Tigers, along with the other 29 Major League teams have until midnight to offer their free agents arbitration. The Tigers have already announced they will not be offering contracts to designated hitter Aubrey Huff and starting pitcher Jarrod Washburn, both of whom had lackluster performances during their time in Detroit. The Tigers have also opted to part ways with DH Marcus Thames and catcher Matt Treanor.
The remaining Tiger free agents are shortstop Adam Everett, reliever Brandon Lyon, closer Fernando Rodney and second baseman Placido Polanco—all of whom have a realistic shot at being offered arbitration.
Even if not offered arbitration by the Tigers, all players would remain eligible to resign with the Tigers for 2010. So why then would the Tigers not offer arbitration to such key components to their roster?
Simple. In the event that any of the four players accept arbitration, their 2009 performance merits a raise, meaning the payroll the Tigers have been trying to limit would again swell; particularly in regards to Polanco who is coming off a Gold Glove season. If Polanco, a Type A free agent, rejects Detroit's arbitration offer to sign with another team, the Tigers would receive a Draft pick that is “sandwiched” between the first and second rounds.
Rodney and Lyon, both Type B free agents, have both stated their interest in long-term deals; which indicates their unwillingness to accept arbitration. Rodney, who may be up for a substantial raise on his $2.7 million salary in 2009, given his 37-save season he had in 2009. Rodney has indicated he would like a deal in the 3 to 4-year range.
Lyon then becomes the more affordable option of the two relievers for the immediate future. Though Lyon's agent Barry Meister said that Lyon would sign a multi-year contract somewhere, according to Mlive.com. Compensation for Type B free agents would bring a “sandwich” pick after the second round.
Once arbitration has been offered, players will have six days to decide whether or not they'll accept it. By accepting, the player agrees to a one-year contract, with the salary to be decided by an arbitrator in February worked out between the player and club beforehand.
General Manager Dave Dombrowski has yet to require an arbitration hearing since taking over in Detroit in 2003.
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