Report: Boras believes Chen worth over $20M per year
Free-agent left-hander Wei-Yin Chen is hoping the contract of a former division rival sets the parameters for his next deal.
Boston Red Sox right-hander Rick Porcello agreed to a four-year, $82.5-million extension prior to last season, and Jon Morosi of FOX Sports reported Monday that agent Scott Boras is prepared to make the case to potential suitors that Chen deserves a deal worth more than Porcello's $20.5-million annual average.
Chen is coming off a season in which he posted a career-low 3.34 ERA and 1.21 WHIP, while striking out 153 over 191 2/3 innings with the Baltimore Orioles. The 30-year-old owns a 46-32 record with a 3.72 ERA since entering the majors in 2012.
Though four years older, Chen posted much better numbers than Porcello in the three years prior to seeking his respective deal. Comparing Porcello and Chen's body of work could, however, also prove to be a cautionary tale for teams, as Porcello posted a career-worst 4.92 ERA across 28 starts last season - his first since signing the extension.
| Pitcher | W-L | ERA | IP | SO9 | WHIP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Porcello | 37-36 | 4.08 | 558 | 6.1 | 1.34 |
| Chen | 34-21 | 3.61 | 514 | 6.9 | 1.24 |
It was reported earlier this month that Chen is seeking at least a five-year deal, but it's unlikely there'll be a market if he demands that, and over $20 million per year.
The Orioles extended a $15.8-million qualifying offer to Chen, which he rejected, tying him to draft-pick compensation.