What Happens to Craig Kimbrel?

[Time to Mo Vaughn]

We're two days away from the start of the season and Craig Kimbrel is still a free agent. I thought for sure he'd have a contract signed by the end of last week. It's an interesting question to see now where he ends up and for what type of contract? Does he wait for someone desperate after an injury? Does he go for a 1 year deal or can he still get more?

I can only include one poll question, but I've given the ability to vote for team, timing and contract length in the response. Though I can't stop you from using all three of your votes for a team.

 

[montoursvillefan]

Sox, before 4/30, one year.
DD gets it done, CK wants to play.

 

[TheYaz67]

I still think the Atlanta reunion makes the most sense. As many have previously pointed out, Sox unlikely to resign him because when you factor in all the added luxury taxes that would come with that decision, it "costs" +$25 million to sign him even to a one year deal...

 

[pokey_reese]

The Brewers, two years. They have a real need with all of their bullpen injuries, have made a sincere effort to contend the last few seasons, and are in a winnable division. I think the Sox just won't pay for his services, and the Braves, in the NL East and half way through a rebuild, would probably not be well suited to devote those resources to a luxury like Kimbrel, as much as they would like. I think getting the second year, at a decent AAV, is the thing that allows him to justify 'giving in' because he can be on a contender, and lock in some big bucks while still having another shot at a deal if he performs well.

 

[Sad Sam Jones]

Correct me if I'm wrong, but I believe the draft pick compensation would be tied to him until after the amateur draft is completed June 5th. That will be about 60 games into the season for most teams. I assume he's been building up his arm, but it would still be 1-2 weeks between him signing now and then pitching in major league games. It seems to me it would be a bad mistake for most teams to surrender a first or high round pick for about 20 innings of Kimbrel. Teams should see how their pens shake out for a couple of months and then there will be opportunities in June.

*

 

[jon abbey]

The draft pick loss is different for each team in this CBA, so I just researched it for a Kimbrel signing. ATL would lose a second round pick and MIL only a fourth round pick, either would also lose the spending slot so a bit of overall draft flexibility too.