Boston re-signed free agent Mike Timlin to a one-year, $2.75M contract that includes a $250,000 buyout on a $2.75M option for 2005. Last year, I was suspect of the Red Sox's signing of Timlin, as I felt his strikeout rate was headed in a dangerous direction. However, the 37-year-old's K/9 surprisingly rebounded this year, jumping from 4.7 in 2002 to 7 in 2003. Meanwhile, his always impressive walk rate fell to below 1.

According to AP Sports Writer Jimmy Golen, "if he pitches in 50 or more games next year and is not on the disabled list at end the of the season, the 2005 salary becomes guaranteed. If he pitches in 50 or more games and is on the DL at the end of the season, the salary still would be guaranteed if a doctor agreed upon by the player and the team determines he will be back to his normal level of health by spring training."

I feel the salary leans toward generosity. However, if the Red Sox don't change his usage pattern, I expect he will be able to provide them with similar production in 2004 and if he can't they aren't paying him an enormous sum. Timlin also reportedly related well with the rest of the team, and after his playoff performances, his return should be comforting to his fellow players and fans.