Jeremy Guthrie: Should He Stay or Should He Go?

We now appear to have the parameters of a negotiation with Jeremy Guthrie, according to the latest from Bob Dutton. Guthrie, who posted a 4.76 ERA between Colorado and Kansas City, is believed to be seeking a three-year deal after resurrecting his dismal season in Kansas City. The Royals seem content to let the thirty-three year old right-hander explore free agency, and have indicated they are unwilling to go more than two years on a deal with Guthrie.

"Right now, the logical conclusion is we’re still working for a comfort level. We have to be (interested in him). Anybody who improves our rotation, we have to be interested in."

Anybody! You there, tossing balls for a stuffed animal at Worlds of Fun. We are interested in you!

While Guthrie is very likely to be an upgrade over, say Luke Hochevar, its unclear whether he would justify the $6-10 million in annual salary required to sign him. The Royals do have to be given some credit for not rushing to lock down the first shiny item that gets their attention as Dayton has done in past off-seasons. The Royals retain an exclusive negotiating window with Guthrie through the end of the week, but after that Guthrie is free to negotiate with other teams.

My guess is Scott McKinney is right and Guthrie will find offers not as lucrative as he thinks, as teams still retain the memory of him sucking out loud in Denver. Waiting Guthrie out and possibly signing him late in the free agent period may prove to be a steal. And if the Royals miss out on signinga multi-year deal on an aging 33-year old whose upside is an "innings-eater"? Well that wouldn't be so bad now, would it?

You're happy when I'm on my knees
One day is fine, next is black
So if you want me off your back
Well come on and let me know
Should I stay or should I go?
Lyrics from: http://www.lyricsfreak.com/c/clash/should+i+stay+or+should+i+go_20031789.html ]
Should I stay or should I go now?
Should I stay or should I go now?
If I go there will be trouble
An if I stay it will be double
So come on and let me know

Should I stay or should I go?