The Chicago White Sox have agreed to a deal for Paul Konerko for three years and $37.5 million. Konerko will receive $12 million in the first two years, $6 million in the third year and seven years deferred at $1 million each.
Negotiations were said to be at a "standstill" Tuesday, but apparently that didn't last long as movement toward an agreement came at around midnight central standard time.
GM Kenny Williams made no secret that after signing Adam Dunn, Konerko was the team's main priority. Dunn and and catcher A.J. Pierzynski even back-loaded their contracts, so the team could have a better chance at getting Konerko.
Make no doubt about it, however, Konerko and Pierzynski most likely would have been gone if not for the acquisition of Dunn and the chance of winning mixed with the fact the White Sox were willing to spend this offseason.
Most importantly, Sox fans can breathe a sigh of relief with hopes that newly-acquired free agent Dunn can now leave his gloves at home, as he should not be needed for the field now that Konerko has been signed.
After hitting .312 with 39 home runs and 111 RBI, Konerko could have sought more money on the market, but most likely not with a chance to win and meaning a move for he and his family. He was linked to the Arizona Diamondbacks, Baltimore Orioles, Chicago Cubs with a hint of the Texas Rangers.
With the Yankees going after Cliff Lee, the Red Sox getting Adrian Gonzalez, the Tigers getting Victor Martinez and the National League staying away from first base/DH types, Konerko and Dunn basically fell into the White Sox laps.
Once the White Sox were able to sign Dunn, Konerko and Pierzynski followed and the White Sox are looking like division contenders.
Williams may not be finished, as the team could use some bullpen help. Stay tuned.
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