In a recent article for CNN.com, Ethan Trex informs us of some of MLB’s strangest contracts. I’ve inserted my favorites below, but read the whole thing and count how many times you mumble to yourself, “Must be nice.”
2. Support for Rollie Fingers’ ‘stache
Former A’s owner Charlie Finley never thought of a gimmick he wouldn’t try, including a mechanical rabbit that delivered fresh balls to the umpire and hiring a 13-year-old MC Hammer as his “Executive V.P.”
In 1972, Finley offered his players cash for growing a mustache by Father’s Day, thereby giving birth to reliever Rollie Fingers’ trademark handlebar ‘stache.
The A’s went on to win the World Series that season, and Fingers’ contract for 1973 contained a $300 bonus for growing the mustache as well as $100 for the purchase of mustache wax.7. Roy Oswalt’s big toy
Before pitcher Roy Oswalt made a start in the 2005 National League Championship Series, Astros owner Drayton McLane promised to make the ace’s dreams come true if he won, specifically his life goal of bulldozer ownership.
After Oswalt dominated the Cardinals to send Houston to its first World Series, McLane came through with a Caterpillar D6N XL.
Since Major League Baseball requires high-dollar gifts be disclosed, Oswalt signed an addendum to his contract, a “bulldozer clause,” authorizing the club to give him his new toy.
9. Ichiro won’t be homeless
One would think a guy making a guaranteed $17 million a year wouldn’t be too worried about keeping a roof over his head. Not Ichiro Suzuki, though.
The Seattle Mariners star outfielder signed a five-year contract extension in July 2007 that included, among other perks, four round-trip airline tickets to Japan each year and the services of an interpreter and trainer throughout the season. It also included a housing allowance for each year of the deal.
While the numbers themselves aren’t eye-popping — the allowance ranges from $32,000 to $36,000 a year over the life of the deal — kudos to Ichiro for getting someone else to pay his rent.
How savvy is Ichiro? Dude not only signs a huge contract but somehow manages to score a (most likely) sweet pad free of charge. Roy Oswalt must be kicking himself in that complimentary bulldozer of his.
