GMDM made a solid signing today inking Jeff Francis to a one year 2M+ incentives deal. Francis a lefty from the Rockies organization is trying to rebuild his career after shoulder problems kept him out in 2009 and part of 2010.
A few positives come with this deal.
The Royals didn't overpay.
Francis has some upside to him as opposed to a Kevin Millwood who would be nothing more than a Jason Kendall on the mound.
If Francis proves to be healthy and back to his old form the Royals should be able to turn him at the deadline for a nice prospect or two.
This should hold back the front office from starting Duffy or Teaford on the major league 25 man to begin the season. Teaford was hit hard in his one AAA start and as Edgar Osuna proved last season the Pacific Coast League can prove to be quite challenging as compared to AA. If Duffy, Teaford or other lefty prove to be ready for the majors early they perhaps can learn a thing or two from Francis while he is in KC.
The Royals continue to not spend big in a non-contend season. GMDM has seemingly learned from past mistakes and continues to sign contracts that will not limit the payroll of the future.
All in all a nice limited downside type of deal.
The Royals also inked Luke Hochevar and Alex Gordon to one year deals for 1.76 and 1.4M(100K incentive) respectively. Hoch was given no raise while Gordon received a modest 300K raise. The Royals continue to win by avoiding arbitration with their players. Billy Butler, Kyle Davies and Robinson Tejeda remain the only unsigned arbitration eligible Royals left.
Next up: Why I'm bullish on GMDM.
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