Jayson Werth and Chad Durbin next in line to play ball

The Phillies and Jayson Werth have agreed to a 2-year deal worth $10 million. It was reported last night that Jayson Werth had asked for $4 million, but the Phillies offered $3 million. Well, with the new deal, Werth will make $3 million in 2009 and $7 million in 2010.

Jayson Werth played very well in only 418 at-bats with 24 home runs, 67 RBIs, and 20 stolen bases. Oh, he also hit .273, and had an OPS of .861. Werth is developing into a nice corner outfielder who plays defense, but also adds a great bat and speed to the lineup. His only true downfall was his OPS against right-handed hitters, but you'd have to expect that with more practice, he'd improve. Werth will be looked upon by the Phillies to replace the right-handed power out of the 5-hole that the Phillies lost with Burrell gone.

Ruben Amaro, Jr. didn't exactly make a splash in free agency, but his in house moves are starting to prove that he actually knows what he's doing.

Jayson Werth is a valuable commodity because he can play every position in the outfield well, and he can even be an emergency catcher if need be. Good move Rube! Now sign Howard to that 4 year, $80 million contract and lets be done with hearing about his arbitration hearings.

(Update: Chad Durbin has signed a 1-year deal worth $1.635 million)

The two parties were a little apart with arbitration and made it easy and went right for the middle. Maybe Howard is really looking for $16 million. Anyway, Chad Durbin will have to be a vital member of the bullpen again this year for the team to make a run in the postseason.