Well, that was fast. Bob Howry is the latest Giant, at the low, low price of $2.75 million for one year, far less than I expected him to command. If he throws like he did in 2006–2007, not 2008, this is a great move. Schulman talked to Sabean’s right-hand man Ron Schueler who said Howry was overworked last year.
I was off on the years, but earlier today I guessed right about the incentives. According to the AP, Howry’s contract is chock-a-block with extras:
Howry can earn an additional $500,000 based on games, getting $100,000 each for 55, 60, 65, 70 and 75 appearances. He can earn $1 million based on games finished: $100,000 for 45, $200,000 for 50, $300,000 for 55 and $400,000 for 60.
Funny how Schueler said Howry’s troubles last year came from overwork, but he’s now got a million or so reasons to pitch as much as possible. Question about those “games finished” milestones: Does it count when the Giants lose and Howry is the last Giant pitcher on the mound?
He’s now on the 40–man roster to the right, which gives the Giants two free spots. If they add Renteria, they’re nearly full. A trade is gonna come.
