Oh Man, What About Ohman?

Written by Colin on February 6, 2009 – 12:20 am

First, please forgive me for the title of this post. You knew it was coming somewhere in the article, so I figured I’d get it out of the way up front. The Braves have been after the left handed Ohman this offseason and have made him what Ohman termed “a very strong offer intended to show me they want me back.”

And even though the Braves extended that offer early in the offseason, Ohman hasn’t signed. Why? He’s in fairly high demand. Besides the Braves, Ohman has also been linked to the Phillies, the Nationals, the Padres, the Orioles, Indians, Rockies, Cardinals, and Rays – at least. Oh, and today it was reported that the Mets gave him a call for the first time this offseason. Dirty New Yorkers.

Where will he end up? Good luck guessing. The Braves’ offer is still on the table. Ohman has told the AJC that he wants to sign with the Braves – but I’d assume they’re asking for a little more money than we’re offering. If the Mets sweep him away, I am not going to be a happy man. I’m sure they’ll try and offer more money – and I’m not sure the Braves want to spend tons more money than they’ve already offered to bring Ohman back. We don’t have THAT much budget flexibility.

One thing is clear: Ohman is a valuable lefty that will benefit whatever team lands him. He had a 3.68 ERA last season, but held lefties to a .197 batting average – which is what he’ll be used for primarily. We can only hope that the Braves land him to bolster their already promising bullpen, which is promising to be one of the better bullpens in recent memory, barring the Mike Hampton effect.

C’mon back to Atlanta, Will. We’d love to have you. Hope to see you at the Wide World of Sports in just a few days!


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