Cliff Lee Returning to Philadelphia

[Roy H.]

Just saw an interview of Lee talking about how it's all about winning, not the money ... give me a break! (Five years, $120 million!)

I think the fairest way to look at it is that the money was really important, but that there were other factors.  He left a lot of money on the table that he probably won't recoup later, so it's not *solely* money.

My guess is that he wanted to go somewhere where he knew he could win consistently (which may have ruled out Texas a bit) and somewhere where he knew he would be comfortable (which gave Philly the edge over New York.)

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I'm happy for the Phillies fans.  I think their bad reputation is a little exaggerated.  I attended dozens of Phillies games when I lived in New Jersey, and the fans just seemed passionate and engaged in the games.

The Phils are my National League team, and I'll root for them in any game where they're not playing the Sox.  I was thrilled by this move, because it weakens the Yanks, keeps a great arm out of the AL, and strengthens the Phillies.

[Bahku]

Just saw an interview of Lee talking about how it's all about winning, not the money ... give me a break! (Five years, $120 million!)

I think the fairest way to look at it is that the money was really important, but that there were other factors.  He left a lot of money on the table that he probably won't recoup later, so it's not *solely* money.

My guess is that he wanted to go somewhere where he knew he could win consistently (which may have ruled out Texas a bit) and somewhere where he knew he would be comfortable (which gave Philly the edge over New York.)

---------------

I'm happy for the Phillies fans.  I think their bad reputation is a little exaggerated.  I attended dozens of Phillies games when I lived in New Jersey, and the fans just seemed passionate and engaged in the games.

The Phils are my National League team, and I'll root for them in any game where they're not playing the Sox.  I was thrilled by this move, because it weakens the Yanks, keeps a great arm out of the AL, and strengthens the Phillies.

This was said tongue-in-cheek ... I love the Phillies, and always have, and this is a great move for them. I'd be fine if professional athletes just accepted these deals on their own merits and in a realistic and humble perspective, but I get a little annoyed when they hold out for a "comfortable" $120 million-dollar contract, and claim it's all about character and nobler motivations. I'm personally not in agreement with what professional athletes are paid, but as long as we, the public, are willing to pay the high price for tickets, it's never going to improve.

[thirstyboots18]

And, pay extra for the various sports channels....

[Rondo2287]

Q: What do the Yankees do now?  Pavano? Brad Penny??

Probably go after Greinke.

They're going to have to beat Texas to it, though.

People are saying that Greinke won't be going to NY, they say he doesnt have the mental makeup to succeed there.

[Mike-Dub]

Q: What do the Yankees do now?  Pavano? Brad Penny??

Probably go after Greinke.

They're going to have to beat Texas to it, though.

People are saying that Greinke won't be going to NY, they say he doesnt have the mental makeup to succeed there.

Yeah I wouldn't be surprised if they resigned Pettite now.