T.R. Sullivan of MLB.com reports that the Rangers have declined their $9 million option on Vladimir Guerrero for 2011.
While perhaps surprising to some based on his big name and 115-RBI season, Guerrero simply wasn’t a $9 million player in 2010 and at age 36 was unlikely to be any better in 2011.
He struggled in the playoffs, going 13-for-59 (.220) with zero homers, but even before that Guerrero hit just .278/.322/.426 in 69 regular season games after the All-Star break.
His strong first half shouldn’t be entirely discounted either, but Guerrero’s overall production stood out far less than his RBI total would indicate, as his .841 OPS ranked 42nd among the 151 players who logged at least 500 plate appearances this season. Toss in his complete lack of defensive value and he’s just not worth $9 million at age 36.
After a World Series run declining his option was no doubt a tough decision for general manager Jon Daniels, but the Rangers made the right call. If they can re-sign Guerrero for a lesser salary it could make sense, but if not there will be no shortage of corner outfielders, first basemen, and designated hitters capable of producing an .800 OPS for a fraction of the cost.
