So much for the idea that Nomar Garciaparra would take a minor league deal and back up on the cheap for the Chicago Cubs (or anyone else).
[The A’s] have also added an intriguing bat off the bench in Nomar Garciaparra. He was guaranteed $1 million and can make an additional $150,000 if he reaches 300 plates appearances. He will also be rewarded handsomely if healthy and on the active 25-man roster: $100,000 for 60 and 90 days and $50,000 for 120 days. denverpost.com.
$1 million guaranteed in this market for a decidedly un-Billy Beane-like guy who has trouble staying healthy and is getting old and was contemplating retirement is … a surprise.