Salary Question

[Clay]

What makes a player, presumedly in or close to his prime (maybe a little past it), suddenly look for a dramatically lower contract on an extension?

To be specific. Sargentini is in the last year of a deal paying him $14 million plus. He's 34, so has a couple decent years in him. I went to check his extension request and it's almost 50% of what he is currently earning. Did I just catch him at a good time cause he's in a slump? Should I take that as an AI hint that he's heading for the crapper?

Just curious to know if any of the more experienced players have seen this.

[Jim]

I was worried he was gonna want the same or more than he was currently getting which is why I dumped him.

If I remember right, he hasn't had any long/major injuries, which would make me want to try to sign him at the 50% off. I'd probably do a 2 year contract, 2nd year team option in case he does start to suck.

[Clay]

Believe me. I'm making an offer while his self-esteem is low. I'm concerned though that it's a bug and suddenly he'll want $12 mill again and be pissed at my current offer.

[robster1225]

Have his ratings shown a signifigant decline, or maybe even a slow and steady decline?

[Clay]

Not that I can tell. Keep in mind, I just got him this off-season. He's a had a rough couple weeks, but no significant change in ratings.

[Jim]

The first 2 seasons I think he was pretty consistent. Last season he started slow (I don't think he started really hitting until June-July, when he went on a tear). Maybe that's how he is or maybe it's a sign of his age?

[Ryan]

During solo play, you can catch some guys that will give you a discount if they start the season off poorly. I'm sure its the same for online leagues as well.

For example, my closer a few years ago, after turning 34 was in his walk year. He requested an extension, but he wasnt doing well during the first month or two. He wanted $4 million or so, but because he was struggling, I didnt offer him a deal. As the year went on, he reverted back to his previous form, actually better. So I offered him another extension, hoping to catch him at $4 mill again, but he wanted $9 million instead.

So, yeah, if you can catch a guy in a slump that you feel will play better than he is, and you can get him to sign for considerably less, go for it.