Braun signs largest zero to three contract; 8 years for 45 million

[missionhockey21]

Brewers sign Braun to eight-year deal Contract for $45 million is largest for 'zero-to-three' player By Adam McCalvy / MLB.com MILWAUKEE -- The Brewers announced a record contract extension for left fielder Ryan Braun on Thursday that sets the standard for players with zero to three years of Major League experience. The contract is for eight years and $45 million, exceeding the six-year, $31 million contract signed by Rockies shortstop Troy Tulowitzki, who would have been eligible for salary arbitration one year earlier than Braun. Braun's deal blows away the six-year, $17.5 million guaranteed to Rays third baseman Evan Longoria, who like Braun falls into the "zero-plus" category of service time. "It's a very good contract for both the ballclub and Ryan," general manager Doug Melvin said at a press conference at Miller Park. Braun hit .324 with 34 home runs last season last season and edged Tulowitzki in a close National League Rookie of the Year vote. Because he was not promoted to the Majors until late May, Braun would not have been eligible for arbitration until the 2010-11 offseason and for free agency until 2013-14.

The Official Site of Major League Baseball: News: Brewers sign Braun to eight-year deal

The Brewers buy a few years of free agency and at the average rate of the contract (I am sure it's structured differently), Braun would surely be getting more than 5 million some in arbitration. As for Braun, it's not a bad trade-off at all and he'll still be at an age should he elect for free agency that he could still get a gigantic long term deal.

[General]

Seems like a good idea. Wish we could sign 0-3 players in OOTP.

[brewcrewrock]

wooooo! It is a great idea go braun

[love_that_reefer]

Best investment possibly in franchise history.

[brewcrewrock]

fielders next

[Doppelgänger]

The new wave in doing things. A great move, Braun is a guy to build around.

[brewersfan19]

At least something went well for the Brewers today!!! This made my day!!! Good for Braun!!!

[Hardy Blonde]

Originally Posted by brewcrewrock fielders next

Sure hope so!

Loved this news. Welcome to your new home Ryan Braun. Here to stay!

[brewersfan19]

yep, i hope and think so also!!!

[brewcrewrock]

yeah!

[Hardy Blonde]

I have a feeling Ryan Braun will be like Jenkins. Stay forever until his time is up for good.

[brewersfan19]

that sounds good to me.

[Hardy Blonde]

I'm glad.