Lynn Extension a Steal

St. Louis has agreed to an extension with Lance Lynn for 3 years/$22MM. The deal is great for the Cardinals organization. Lynn was projected to earn $5.5MM this season. If he would continue to perform at this level he would have earned possibly as much as $9MM next season and $13-15MM the following.

The Good:

• Both Lance Lynn and the Cardinals avoid three years of the grueling arbitration process that can create resentment.
• Lance Lynn gets a large amount of guaranteed money.
  • Pitchers are always looking for their first big payday. Even though Lynn probably cost himself some dollars, he saved himself some headache.
• The extension is a sign of good faith that the Cardinals want Lynn around. This could lead to another extension in three seasons at below-market price.

The Bad (for the organization):

• The Cardinals did not buy-out a year of free agency. While my original article suggested to sign Lynn at 5 years/$50MM, it would have been a stretch. However, getting a 4th year would been a huge success for the organization.
• Lynn will be 30 when he hits free agency. Most free agent pitchers hit the market around that age. However, we saw Lester sign for $155MM and Scherzer asking for $200MM. If Lynn finds himself at elite status as he develops he will be a costly re-sign.

In the end, the deal is great for the Cardinals and Lynn. The Cardinals save a good amount of money. Each side avoids arbitration. Lance Lynn will not lose any of his free agent years and gets guaranteed money. Win-win.