Orlando Hudson is in no position to ask for $9 million next year. On December 1, the Dodgers chose to not offer Hudson arbitration and to everyone’s surprise, he still remains on the market. The Nationals have emerged as the only serious contender, which should be a clear sign of Hudson’s current value.
Fact is, $9 million is far too much money for a 32-year-old second baseman. True, Hudson does come with plenty of positives worthy of a decent contract. With a career batting average of .282, four Gold Gloves, and a perfect club-house personality, he’d be a key player on any team. However, Hudson can’t expect that kind of money when he doesn’t steal bases, hits for minimal power, and has a questionable back. For his body type, Hudson should steal about 20 bases per season. Also, if he wants to continue hitting higher up in the order, 10 home runs won’t do. Brian Roberts, Aaron Hill, Robinson Cano, Chase Utley, and Brandon Phillips are currently the most productive second basemen in the game. Cano, now 27 years old, will make $9 million next season — the same amount Hudson is seeking. In 2009, Cano hit .320 with 25 home runs and 85 RBIs, all the while helping the Yankees to a World Championship. Do Hudson and Cano really compare?
No, they don’t.
The Nationals are reportedly offering Hudson a one-year, $3 million deal. If the Nationals are serious, they’ll increase the amount to about $5 million. In that case, Hudson would be a fool to look elsewhere.
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