Article on Zito's Future

[HammerDown]

The Future Of Barry Zito: MLB Rumors - MLBTradeRumors.com

What happens if Zito reaches the 200 inning trigger this season? Which way will it go? He's looking solid so far.

Opinions?

 

[CitySushi]

Unless Zito completely collapses, I don't see any way that his option is not picked up by the Giants. There is almost no way Zito will exercise his own option and walk away with 3.5M versus 18M. As has been stated many times, the Giants already have to pay 7M in order to decline the option. If they want to pick it up, it's an additional 11M. If Zito comes close to the numbers he had last year, (15-8, 4.15 ERA), that becomes a very easy decision.

What I could see happening is that if Zito has another good year, the Giants decline the option in order to work out a new contract. They would pay him the 7M buy-out and sign him to a 3 year deal for 27-30M.

 

[ColinCoby]

Article about Zito's performance yesterday, as well as his success over the last year.

COHN: Barry Zito not just getting batters out, he's dominant | PressDemocrat.com

 

[ColinCoby]

One highlight:

"The Giants...have won the previous 16 times Zito has started, going back to last season. That includes three postseason starts. The Giants' 16 in a row behind Zito ties their team record for 16 straight wins behind a starter, the co-record-holder being none other than the legendary Carl Hubbell, who did it in 1936..."

 

[calsnowskier]

The point of Zito opting out with the intention of resigning is interesting.

If he vests, and then opts out, so we give a qualifying? That would be approx 14.5M? That would end up being the same 18M he would be paid if he were to accept the option...