Tim Williams: Liriano Won't Get A Four-Year Deal
PITTSBURGH (KDKA 93-7 The Fan)- Tim Williams of PiratesProspects.com joined Tab Douglas and Joe Rhoades to discuss the Pirates offseason. There are reports that Francisco Liriano is seeking a four-year, $60 million contract in free agency.
Williams told Douglas and Rhoades that Liriano will have trouble finding a team to give him that many years.
"There's a difference between what he's looking for and what he could actually get," he said. "I don't think that any team in baseball would actually give him four years and $60 million. I think maybe at that rate, a three year deal might be possible."
Williams added that he thinks that the Pirates will be aggressive in trying to keep him, and could spend more than people expect.
Closer Mark Melancon is not a free agent, but is arbitration eligible. Williams says that 2015 could be Melancon's last season as a Pirate.
"If Melancon does make a lot this year- we have him projected for $5.6 million- if he does get that, then I think this could be his last year and they might take the (Joel) Hanrahan approach next year and deal him away, try to find the next closer and try to use that money elsewhere," Williams said.