I know it is early in the off season and that the big free agents have not yet signed. But I thought a quick look at what has transpired so far this off season might give us an idea of how the increased TV money is going to impact what free agents are going to receive. All totals include guaranteed money.
PITCHERS
Brett Anderson A's option 8.00M
Matt Besile Rockies mutual option 4.25M
Jorge De La Rosa Rockies option 11.00M
Jason Frasor Texas contract 1 year 1.75M
Casey Jannsen Jay's option 4.00M
Jon Lester Red Sox option 13.00M
Tim Lincecum Giants contract- 2 years 35.00M
Matt Lindstom White Sox option 4.00M
Wandy Player option 13.00M
James Shields KC option 13.50M
Jacob Turner Marlins option 1.00M
Position Players
Marlon Bryd Phils contract-2 years 16.00M
Coco Crisp A's option 7.50M
D. DeJesus Rays contract-2 years 10.25M
Yunel Escobar Rays option 5.00M
Derick Jeter Yanks contract-1 year 12.00M
Adam Lind Jay's option 8.00M
Nick Punto A's contract-1year 3.00M
Geovany Soto Texas contract-1year 3.05M
Ben Zobrist Rays option 9.50M
Based on the team exercised options is appears that starting pitchers even those that are slightly above average are going to get eight figures per year deals. Teams are exercising option on solid but not outstanding middle relievers for 4M. That fact would seem to make the Pirates relievers like Wilson and Watson who are not even arbitration eligible to be solid trade chips (not that I would want to move either of them.) It would also seem to make Melancon who should make about 3M in arbitration and Grilli a closer slated to make 4.25M nice trade chips as well.