For all the mounting criticism directed at Phillies GM Ruben Amaro Jr.—he traded Cliff Lee, overpaid Ryan Howard, failed to extend Cole Hamels (so far)—there’s no doubt he and the franchise made out beautifully in the just-announced re-signing of incumbent shortstop Jimmy Rollins.
The Phillies gave Rollins a three-year deal worth $33 million with a vesting option fourth year. From the get-go, Rollins wanted a five-year deal and the Phillies felt they couldn’t go higher than three.
In the end, the Phillies got their man at their price. For a team with scant alternatives, the deal validates Amaro’s hard line and keeps Philadelphia’s window for a third championship open for the next few years.
And for those preoccupied with Rollins’ shortcomings—pops up too much, doesn’t see enough pitches, takes plays off—the stats tell the story.
Here are Rollins’ ranks among major league shortstops over the last five seasons in the major player value categories:
WAR: 5th
HR: 5th
RBI: 5th
Walks: 7th
SB: 2nd
SLG%: 5th
OPS : 5th
The argument against Rollins is largely one of passion and inference. But looking at the numbers, it’s clear Rollins is one of the best at his craft.
Add to all that the fact that Rollins has been one of the league’s most valuable defenders and efficient base runners, and I’d say the Phillies just got one of the league’s better shortstops for a mighty reasonable price.
Even accounting for the indignities of old age, Rollins figures to be one of baseball’s ten best at his position over the life of his contract.
All of it amounts to tremendous value for a team built to compete for a World Series over the next few seasons.
The Phillies made sure his talents stayed planted in South Philadelphia and secured a franchise great through the waning years of his decorated career. Bravo.
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