There’s been plenty of chatter about the Minnesota Twins declining the contract option of Joe Nathan for 2012, but it doesn’t mean Terry Ryan wouldn’t consider the right renegotiated deal. Well, Nathan got that new deal from the Texas Rangers, for two years and $14.8 million deal with an option for a third year. And sure, I’m unhappy about it.
Merely months after becoming the Twins all-time saves leader, Nathan was set out to sea by the organization who took a chance on the former shortstop prospect. Nathan said it only took a few hours to make his decision, which tells me there wasn’t much competition for his services. But he will be closer to home, working for one of the best pitchers ever in Nolan Ryan, and even got a potential three-year deal out of the Rangers. It was too good to reject given the circumstances (age/health), and Terry Ryan was interested in changing Nathan’s mind.
It’s a bittersweet end to an era in which Nathan was one of the best relief pitchers in baseball. I’ve never been comfortable with Nathan on the mound. His heavy, horse-like breathing and profuse sweating always made me nervous. And I never have forgiven him for Game 2 of the 2009 ALDS, but there’s no denying he’s one of the best.
Terry Ryan is really in a hole now. With closers drawing big dollars on the free agent market, Ryan may look to trade for Huston Street or Drew Storen. Street could be done; Storen probably won’t happen. What I am most concerned about is a report that Ryan would consider bringing back Matt Capps. I know I’m not the only person who doesn’t want Capps back, but if we got him at a bargain I would give him a shot…but certainly not to close. If you think Nathan makes me nervous on the mound, you should see me chain smoke cigarettes when Capps is out there.
In the Joe Nathan era, I experienced some of the most exciting and energy-draining baseball of my young life. I must have aged at twice the normal rate, but I enjoyed most of it. Thanks for the memories, Joe. I certainly wish you the best, except when you’re playing the Twins.
