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Weekly Poll: Russ Ortiz Situation
The Arizona Diamondbacks on Tuesday moved to rid themselves of struggling pitcher Russ Ortiz as they designated him for assignment, giving them 10 days to trade him or release him outright. But here's the kicker: the team will likely be responsible for nearly all of the estimated $22 milliion left on his contract, believed to be the largest sum ever owed to a player let go. Even if the D-Backs find a taker for Ortiz in trade, he has been so bad this season and last that they will still have to pay almost all of his salary. After winning double-digit games for six straight years through 2004, including a career best 21 for the Atlanta Braves in 2003, Ortiz has been downright awful for Arizona. Last season he went 5-11 with a 6.89 ERA in an injury-shortened campaign. This year has been even worse: 0-4, 7.54.
Let's face it: signing Ortiz to a four-year, $33 million contract was a mistake to begin with. His won-loss numbers were good when he inked the deal, but all of the ancillary numbers screamed that he was a pitcher in decline, especially moving to an offensive yard like that in Arizona. $22 million is a lot of money to flush down the toilet, but this is a refreshing admission of a terrible mistake by the Diamondbacks and a clear message to the fans that winning means more than dollars.
What do you think? Do you agree with my analysis? Am I missing something? What's your take on the Russ Ortiz situation? Vote in the poll and then click on "comments" below and discuss your thoughts.
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