Union Forces Marlins To Increase Payroll

[byrdz]

The Marlins agreed to allow the league and union to monitor their finances for the next three years.

The announcement comes as the owners prepare to meet this week in Arizona, where baseball’s revenue-sharing plan is likely to be a topic of debate. The union has been concerned that some small-market clubs like the Marlins have had the lowest payrolls for several years running.

Hopefully something gets worked out soon so that teams don't have to be asked nicely to start spending more.

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/01/13/sports/baseball/13marlins.html

[Ralph]

On cue they just agreed with Johnson on a 4 year deal for 39 mill. Obviously theyhad been talking but I bet this played a part in it.

[byrdz]

The quickness of their responses, since being reprimanded, is telling. They no doubt made a conscious effort to take advantage of this flawed sharing system. They did this at the expense of the Marlins fans having a good team and keeping players around. All they had to do is not spend any money and watch the millions roll in. Seems like Marlins fans would want someones head.

By the way, this is generally good news for Orioles fans, as the Marlins aren't as likely to help the Red Sox by offloading all of their premium talent in firesales.