UPDATE: Thome, writes Lavelle E. Neal III, could be looking to use Lance Berkman's $8 million deal as a benchmark for his own contract this winter, and could also be looking to make up for some of the money he may have left on the table a year ago when he made $1.7 million.
Such a concept might price him out of Minnesota, however, and there aren't a lot of clubs left on the DH Market. The Rangers, Rays and Twins may be the lone fits remaining among potential contenders. If the Angels decide Bobby Abreu will play the outfield again in 2011, Thome could be a fit in L.A.
Either way, it's difficult to believe Thome will get $8 million or more from the Twins, despite the club's new revenue stream.
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Jim Thome is now 40 years of age, but Joe Christenesen of the Star Tribune wrote last week that the veteran wants to play again in 2011, and maybe beyond. The Twins, Christensen adds, would like to have him back, but after hitting 25 home runs and posting a .412 on-base percentage in 2010, Thome's market could be quite extensive.
The St. Paul Pioneer-Press reports Monday that the Twins' initial offer to Thome will fall short.
Thome is just a DH these days, so he's relegated to the AL only, but a left-handed bat like that fits in several lineups, including with the Twins. The Los Angeles Angels and Texas Rangers have openings at DH, though the defending AL champs would like to bring back Vladimir Guerrero for another year.
SI.com's Jon Heyman tweeted during the week that the Baltimore Orioles, Rangers and A's also have interest in the slugger.
Thome's agent told the Tribune that he may want to play two more years -- would any club guarantee a 40-year-old more than one year? If so, they may win his services.
Thome had a great year for the Twins, playing mostly against righties and ending the year with 25 HRs in just 276 ABs. However, $8 million a year is just way to much for a guy who you can't even pencil in as your everyday DH. It also may be wise for the Twins to take a look at the likes of Manny Ramirez and Vladimir Guerrero and add some right handed pop to a lineup that already includes lefties Joe Mauer and Justin Morneau.
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