[firefrozen]

I was wondering if anyone knew exactly how the minor league contracts worked. I am aware that they are always cheaper than the majors but other information is what im looking for. Like after a team drafts a player how long will he be in their farm system

[EmpireWF]

I found this for how much a player makes in the minor leagues. Remember, this doesn't account for signing bonuses.

"First contract season: $850/month maximum. After that, open to negotiation
Alien Salary Rates: Different for aliens on visas--mandated by INS (Immigration)
Triple-A--First year: $2,150/month, after first year no less than $2,150/month
Class AA-First year: $1,500/month, after first year no less than $1,500/month
Class A (full season)--First year: $1,050/month, after first year no less than $1,050/month
Class A (short-season)--First year: $850/month, after first year no less than $850/month
Dominican & Venezuelan Summer Leagues--no lower than $300/month
Meal Money: $20 per day at all levels, while on the road"

I think a minor league player drafted to a team has at least 3 or 4 years with that team before they can declare free-agency in the minors.

[firefrozen]

Well i knew that Minor leagers basically live off their signing bonuses cause what they make is nothing. What this really comes down to is me having a debate with a friend about the value of keeping Lastings instead of trading him and so i was wondering when he becomes eligible for free agency or at least arbitration.

[EmpireWF]

Originally Posted by firefrozen

Well i knew that Minor leagers basically live off their signing bonuses cause what they make is nothing. What this really comes down to is me having a debate with a friend about the value of keeping Lastings instead of trading him and so i was wondering when he becomes eligible for free agency or at least arbitration.

Well I believe it's six seasons in the majors until he becomes a free agent.

As for keep or trade Milledge, it's a matter of what you need now. Do the Mets feel they can get a great young pitcher by trading him? In that case, it's easier to get a great young outfield prospect than a great young pitcher. Or, do you think he's going to be that great that you can't trade him.

The only guys I'd consider dealing him for would be Jake Peavy and maybe Danny Haren.

[MJHMarc]

I'm not sure about the information regarding Lastings Milledge, firefrozen. I actually heard about a few trade rumors conerning this top Mets' prospect, but nothing of what you are looking far.

By looking at these numbers neatly prepared by EmpireWF, it is significant that the Minor League players only recieve a minimal amount of money for their service. But perhaps this is the kind of contracts that they deserve. Have you ever thought of this in that perspective?