There seems to be some movement for James Shields, but according to speculation from Fox Sports' Ken Rosenthal, the tea leaves may portend a poorer market than the ace expected.
Rosenthal tweeted that he believes the Diamondbacks are "in the mix" for Shields, which indicates that the $100 million he is asking for might not be available to him.
Sources: #DBacks in mix for Shields, a strong indication that his market is not at $100M; AZ is not willing to spend for him at that level.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) January 13, 2015
It was previously believed that Shields already had a five-year, $110 million offer on the table, but in the same article that information came from, some executives noted the market for him would be volatile.
Rosenthal wrote, "Two execs say it is their understanding that Shields has a five-year, $110 million offer and is looking for an even higher guarantee. But others say that if Shields actually has such an offer, he should take it."
If that deal was actually offered Shields clearly didn't take it--as he is a free agent--and may be regretting that decision. While 2014 was a typical Shields campaign in which he went 14-8 with a 3.21 ERA and logged 200-plus innings, he once again had a poor postseason.
Despite the nickname of "Big Game" James, his playoff performances leave much to be desired. In 59.1 innings of postseason work Shields has gone 3-6 with a 5.46 ERA and 1.53 WHIP. That has clearly done damage to the stock of a workhorse No. 1 starter who hasn't pitched fewer than 203 innings since 2006. So far the Diamondbacks and Marlins appear to be the leading suitors, with Jon Heyman reporting that Toronto could swoop in if they like the price.
blue jays are not in on james shields at the moment, but if his price comes down they'd consider jumping in — Jon Heyman (@JonHeymanCBS) January 6, 2015
© 2023 Sportsworldnews.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
