The Astros announced today that the club has signed right-handed pitcher Dan Wheeler to a one-year, $2.1-million, contract plus incentives. Wheeler, 29, was 3-5 with a 2.52 ERA in 75 games in 2006, including nine saves.
I've loved Wheeler since his 1st appearance as an Astro. It was in Chicago during the bean ball game where several players on both sides had been hit & warnings issued. He got the last out of the 7th, a perfect 8th and the 1st 2 outs in the 9th. His followthru on the 1st pitch to the next batter(which nailed him) carried him towards the Astros dugout. He was half way to the dugout as the ump threw him out of the game. He protects his team!
im guessing they didnt sign him longer bc he was facing arbitration...you can only sign a one year to avoid arbitration either way im glad hes still an astro
They still own him next year under the 6 season/arbitration rule so going into next season a 2-3 year deal would be nice but it's gonna have to be good since Wheeler will most likely test free agency
If you actually go to arbitration, yes, you can only sign a 1-year deal. Up to the moment you sit down at the arb table, the 2 sides can negotiate any deal, for any length & amount, that they wish. Will be interesting to see what happens with Lidge & Wheeler next offseason, both are FA eligible after '08.
