Finally, A Counter

After 4 offers from the Dodgers, Boras finally decides to make a counteroffer to the Dodgers. It took long enough didn't it.

Scott Boras made a counter offer using the same basic language and numbers of the club's two-year, $45MM offer, but without the deferred payments. Boras told the Dodgers that they have until noon to strike a deal.

I don't blame McCourt and company for the last offer with deferred payments. After all, the framework of a $45MM deal over two years is the most important ingredient. The deferred payments is just a ploy to finally get Boras to make a commitment because, at this point so far, Manny and Boras have refused to negotiate in good faith.

When one side refuses to formally counter several other offers (especially good offers) how can the offeror be expected to continue to bid against themselves? This entire process is a negotiation that requires that both sides work together to hammer out a deal. One side, the Dodgers, in my mind, has gone above and beyond in their duties in this negotiation. They have made 4 offers! It is incumbent on the offeree to come back with a counter. Apparently, Boras finally has. And now, we have the makings of a potential deal. (It took longer than desired to get Boras off his perch) Nevertheless, it is now time to get it done.

Update: I wanted to add that you shouldn't expect a done deal until this weekend at the earliest- probably early next week. Boras's deadline for noon today is irrelevant.

Hunt: February Internet Auction

Another Hunt Auction, More Dodger Goodies.

This is a rarity. Below is a 1951 photo postcard featuring Jackie Robinson, Don Newcombe, Roy Campanella and Dan Bankhead with restaurateur Jason Bowman. It advertises Bowman's Cocktail Lounge on the reverse and says,

"Having a wonderful time at Bowman's. There's never a dull moment when the Dodgers are playing baseball."

It sold for $210.00.

Auction Link: Vintage Postcard:

This is the perfect gift for a child spending the afternoon with Dad at the ball game in Ebbetts Field. Below is a circa 1950's doll measuring 8 inches tall. It sold for a affordable $50.00.

Auction Link: Dodger Doll:

This is the ultimate vintage Dodger photo scrapbook. 60 autographs are featured in this 1950's Montreal Royals album with many of them having corresponding photos attached. I would love to see all of the other pages. It's a treasure trove.

Includes Al Giofriddo, Bobby Morgan, Bert Haas, Don Thompson, Carman Mauro, Shotgum Shuba, Tom Lasorda, Dan Bankhead, Clyde King, Jim Hughes, John Podres, Walt Alston, Chuck Connors (yes the actor), Jim Gilliam, Duke Snider, and others.

It sold for a healthy $440.00.

Auction Link: Montreal Royals Auto Book:

Here are 2 pairs of game worn jerseys and pants, a batting helmet, cap and game ball of Dodger hurler Chad Billingsley. He wore our colors during the 2002 IBAF World Junior Championships and won a bronze meal. He won 3 games and lost none with a 2.45 ERA. It sold for $201.00.

Auction Link: Chad Billingsley Game Used Uniforms: