:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/24612303/20130906_mje_so3_1455.0.jpg)
This is happening. Robinson Cano and the Seattle Mariners have overcome their differences and agreed to a contract of 10 years, $240 million according to Enrique Rojas of ESPN Deportes. The exact breakdown hasn't been released, but it appears the two sides essentially met in the middle of the $225 million offer the Mariners made and the $252 million counter-offer that incensed Mariners CEO Howard Lincoln.
Both sides took some time to cool off and re-consider, and now Robinson Cano is going to the highest bidder, and it's the Seattle Mariners. Cano becomes one of the highest paid players in baseball history. It's an insane amount of money, and it means the Mariners are ready to compete, right now. This move is only the beginning to what should be a wild offseason, and the Mariners still have the flexibility to go out and sign more free agents. Getting the best free agent available could help open the door for others.
Robinson Cano might be a Seattle Mariner until he's 40 years old. It remains to be seen what kind of contract he signed. He might have an opt-out written in, or there may be no-trade language. It's also possible that the deal has an option on the final year. The $240 million report is most likely the max value of the deal.
Dustin Ackley or Nick Franklin will certainly be shopped soon, and may possibly be included in a deal to acquire another pitcher or outfielder. The team now has three more than capable second basemen, and that's one of the exciting things about acquiring Cano. The team can now improve in other areas without gutting themselves from players they need. It'll probably be Nick Franklin, and it will probably happen soon.
It's crazy. It's irresponsible. It is without question an overpay in an attempt to change the culture surrounding the Seattle Mariners. And right now, I don't care. Robinson Cano is one of the best players in baseball, and he's now a Seattle Mariner. Before we get caught up in the financial implications, just enjoy that Seattle just landed a star without giving up any future ones of their own. Seattle is relevant. That's a beautiful thing.
