[Phils20]

Great news for the Phils, as yet another player comes off the to do list.

I look forward to seeing the details, but I like it no matter what! This get's the team closer to being ready for a strong 2009 season.

Phillies, Madson reach 3-year extension deal
Inquirer staff writer Jim Salisbury reports:

The Phillies and righthanded reliever Ryan Madson have reached agreement on a three-year contract extension, The Inquirer learned today. The deal, which is pending a physical exam, is believed to be for $12 million, with incentives.

Madson, 28, was 4-2 with a 3.05 ERA in 76 games in 2008.

Madson had been eligible for salary arbitration. The Phils have five salary arbitration-eligible players remaining: Ryan Howard, Jayson Werth, Shane Victorino, Chad Durbin and Joe Blanton.

Potential salary figures will be exchanged tomorrow.

[njpsufan]

I agree great move. Never thought that would happen with Boras as his agent. Glad it was done though. Need to get Vic,Werth and Blanton done. Durbin doesn't matter. Howard is not going to sign long term anyway so no use trying.

[gripitnripit713]

I pretty much 100% agree njp. Obviously Victorino and Werth should be keepers, I would be extremely upset if we don't resign Blanton.

[Phils20]

Yep, I agree with the three you have picked out as well. I think Howard is destined to be in another uniform one day. It seems his demands are just sky high. But we have him for three more season no matter what, unless we just cut him, and I wouldn't do that.

Let him go to arbitration every year if you have to. Until we can get someone better, keep it going. Too bad if he doesn't like it. I don't consider 10 mil a year to be chicken feed, and this town will turn on him in a heartbeat if he starts whining about money.

With all the folks having a hard time of it in the real world, he should shut up and take the money.

I'm reading that he may get 16mil this year, and that is plenty of cash.

[gripitnripit713]

Originally Posted by Phils20

this town will turn on him in a heartbeat if he starts whining about money.

Agreed. Look at Rolen (although he whined about more than money). Look at Abreu. Even go back and look at Schilling. I don't think this club will do well with a huge ego like Howard. Especially now with the caliber this team is, and so many contributors.