Diamond Gems

A.J. Burnett (Pitcher – Toronto Blue Jays)
(New York Yankees: 5 years, $82.5 million)
(Simply stated, the Yankees overpaid. They dramatically overpaid. Burnett is inconsistent. He is injury prone. His hype trumps reality.)

Derek Lowe (Pitcher – Los Angeles Dodgers)
(Atlanta Braves: 4 years, $60 million)
(Since 2004, Lowe has logged a 68-60 ledger. The aforesaid rates $60 million?)

Manny Ramirez (Outfielder - Los Angeles Dodgers)
(Los Angeles Dodgers: 2 years, $45 million)
(Ramirez is arrogant, egomaniacal, and smug. He is also incredible, spectacular, and unequaled. With him, the Dodgers are championship contenders.)

Francisco Rodriguez (Pitcher – Los Angeles Angels)
(New York Mets: 3 years, $37 million)
(In 2008, Rodriguez secured 62 saves. He set a record. Yet, he was released. The Angeles will regret this decision.)

C.C. Sabathia (Pitcher – Milwaukee Brewers)
(New York Yankees: 7 years, $161 million)
(Sabathia is superb. He is not a superstar. He is sans mettle and resolve. Sabathia is worth millions. He was not worth this investment.)

Mark Teixeira (First Baseman – Los Angeles Angels)
(New York Yankees: 8 years, $180 million)
(From 1982-1992, the Yankees amassed a 906-876 record. Their roster included Rickey Henderson, Mike Pagliarulo, Steve Sax, and Dave Winfield. Hank Steinbrenner cannot purchase a championship.)