Doctor Fate wrote:
I don't believe it will *significantly* add to the auction time. Not every player is going to be available every year. However, a few more may be.
It probably won't go to four but it will last longer than the current three hours.
Right. So, maybe two HOF players? (Sorry, but this is not only silly, but it misses the point)
It wasn't too long ago that Nick and I were in serious negotiations for Harper. I would've given up a lot but I was willing.
And again, you've missed the point, I think. It's not a matter of IF a player can do this, it's can a player do this WITHOUT EVER FACING FREE AGENCY?
Even Mike Trout would, at some point, have had the option of leaving the Angels if he had not signed an uber-long term contract.
I suppose I don't think replicating the MLB's labor rules is as important as you.
Oh boy. We are not communicating well. I'm not asking for a leveling of the playing field [my emphasis]. However, I do find it disconcerting that some players will NEVER be available--not in 3, 6, or possibly even 12 years. This is the pre-Curt Flood system.
If competitiveness (i.e. equity, parity, level-playing field, etc...) is not a factor for you, stop bringing it up. Regardless, I still believe your primary argument about fun is compelling. It may not sway me but it might others.
I'd like to have an amendment in a week or so. Here are the options I think I've seen so far:
Contract limit approach1. Limit of 2 consecutive contracts (rookie contracts excepted?).
2. Limit of 5 consecutive years under contract (rookie contracts excepted?).
3. No consecutive contracts. Extend contract period up to five years (more expensive option year possible for contracts of less than 5 years).
Inflation approach4. Base Value penalty for consecutive contracts, increasing by contract (1st - $5; 2nd - $10, 3rd - $15, etc...). No change to current contract options.
5. Base Value penalty for consecutive contracts fixed at $10. Extend contract options up to five years.