Consider it evidence of progress. The Rockies are expected to meet with Brian Fuentes’ agent today at the winter meetings in attempt to strike a deal.
Rockies general manager Dan O’Dowd said that the “parameters are in place,” but terms of a third year of the contract must still be negotiated.
Based on past comparables Keith Foulke and Danny Graves in the arbitration process, Fuentes would be in line to receive a two-year, $6.5 million contract. A third year would take the left-hander up to free agency, thus requiring a huge salary boost.
“I really feel like it’s going to get done,” Fuentes said. “There are no hidden agendas. They know me. And I know the organization.”
Bolstering the bullpen remains a priority as the club re-signed Mike DeJean, anticipates landing Jose Mesa and continues pursuing Felix Rodriguez and Brian Meadows.
Familiarity figures to define who will pitch in front of Fuentes as the market booms for starting pitchers. With Paul Byrd (Cleveland) signing for an average of $7 million per year Sunday and Shawn Estes and Pedro Astacio eyeing multi-year deals, the Rockies’ chances of a landing a free agent are nosediving.
“We have had only limited discussions with the Rockies,” said Stephen Schneider on Sunday, who represents Astacio.
O’Dowd has extended a one-year offer to Byung-Hyun Kim, who isn’t prepared to sign until his value is established. Tony Armas Jr. remains a viable target.
Footnote
Major League Baseball doesn’t plan to disclose its World Baseball Classic rosters until the first week of January, but the Rockies figure to be well represented. There are indications that the American team will include Todd Helton and Fuentes. Rockies special assistant Marcel Lachemann is also a strong candidate for the club’s coaching staff given his past experience with Team USA.
