Francisco avoids arbitration with Phillies deal worth $1.175 million

January 17, 2011|By PAUL HAGEN, hagenp@phillynews.com

Ben Francisco might end up being the Phillies' regular rightfielder this season. Or he might reprise his role as a righthanded bat off the bench.

No doubt the 29-year-old would like to play. That could mean more money in the future.

But, in 2011, it won't make a huge difference.

Francisco avoided arbitration over the weekend by agreeing to a 1-year contract that guarantees him $1.175 million. What he did not get were incentives that would dramatically increase his salary if he becomes a major contributor.

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His only performance bonuses, according to sources, are an extra $25,000 for 400, 450 and 500 plate appearances.

In addition, he would receive a $25,000 award incentive for All-Star election or selection, $50,000 for winning the Most Valuable Player Award (or $25,000 for second or $15,000 for third), $25,000 for LCS MVP, $50,000 for World Series MVP, $25,000 for Gold Glove and $25,000 for Silver Slugger.

Francisco appeared in 88 games for the Phillies last season, batting .268 with six homers and 28 RBI in 197 plate appearances. He played all three outfield positions and designated hitter while making $470,000.

The Phillies need to replace Jayson Werth in rightfield and would prefer to do it with a righthanded hitter; Francisco is the most obvious option currently on the roster.

But general manager Ruben Amaro and manager Charlie Manuel have consistently stressed that no decisions have been made. Several scenarios have been discussed. Francisco could platoon with lefthanded-hitting Ross Gload. John Mayberry Jr. could turn heads with a strong spring. And, of course, Domonic Brown remains in the picture even though he would make an already lefthanded lineup even more unbalanced.

There is also the possibility of a deal before Opening Day. While Giants general manager Brian Sabean said at the winter meetings that he hadn't had any talks with the Phillies involving Aaron Rowand, that remains an interesting name to remember depending on how things play out in Clearwater.

Francisco's signing leaves the Phillies with just one remaining arbitration eligible player, righthander Kyle Kendrick. And his situation is just as unsettled.

At the moment, he appears to be competing for a spot in the bullpen, although he could be in the mix as the fifth starter if there's an injury or if Joe Blanton is traded.

Players and management will exchange numbers tomorrow. Hearings begin Feb. 1, with an arbitration panel choosing one proposal or the other. Players may sign any time before the hearing.

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