Spring training is fast approaching and free agents are running out of time to sign with new teams. This is especially true for Roy Oswalt, who is supposed to report as a pitcher in just nine days. At 34 years of age, and with health risks, no team is looking to give him a long term deal. He needs to prove that he can pitch close to a full season to land something in the next offseason. The Cardinals, Rangers, Red Sox, Reds and Phillies all have some level of interest in the right hander. Oswalt has expressed extreme interest in St. Louis and Texas, but consistent talks have been ongoing in Boston as well.
Even though Oswalt has made it known that he wants to pitch for Texas or St. Louis, both teams are tight on money at the end of this offseason. While everyone knows that the Red Sox have money, ownership has shown some restraint in signing free agents this offseason because of the luxury tax. If they can pick Oswalt up for $7-8 million, they’ll do it. But Oswalt faces a tough decision playing in the AL East, also known as the toughest division in baseball. If he wants a longer deal after this season, he needs to pitch for a team in an easier decision.
That makes Cincinnati an excellent choice for him. He would be playing in the NL central division. A division that only saw the Brewers and Cardinals had winning seasons last year. The Brewers, were dealt a crushing blow this offseason when Prince Fielder left for Detroit. The Cardinals won the Series in October, but they too lost a huge piece to their postseason run in Albert Pujols.
If Oswalt is serious about pitching for multiple years, Cincinnati is the team that he should get a deal done with. On the other hand, if he wants to win a championship as the opportunities become fewer, he should seriously look to the Red Sox, seeing that the Cardinals and Rangers seem unwilling to sign him. Whatever the case, expect a decision in the next few days, so he can get into camp focused and ready to pitch.
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