Apparently, they might bring him back on a cheaper deal.

Regardless this is the smart move. You can spend less than 9mil on equal or better production. There's some extra dough for 3rd, catcher, 1st and yeah DH maybe.

Moment of silence??

Obvserved WSGJ... and yes I agree that this is the best option. I think Vlad finds he won't get 8-9 mil on open market and go to arbitration or take something less from another team. Second choice is mine. Anway I think in the long run it works out either way.

I keep hearing this phrase "we can get equal or better production for the same price" as if it's almost guaranteed. Have there been other FAs who have mentioned Texas as their landing place? Specifically those who bat right and had about the same production.

I'm not being so much sarcastic as I am inquisitive.

114 RBI's is not easy to replace. If the Rangers can bring Vladdy back paying in the $6-$7 million dollar range, I think it can be a win win for both parties. If not and another team signs him, they get the draft picks - not a bad consolation prize (they DID offer arbitration, yes?).

Great season for the boys. I can't quit smiling.

Smart move, and I'm glad to see the front office doesn't swing the pendulum too far to the chemistry side in this case.

Wow, I'm reading TR Sullivan's article at the MLB site, and it's plain that the Rangers NEVER planned on picking up the option when they signed him. Daniels said the buyout was included because they couldn't afford the extra million on the 2010 payroll with their financial problems. Smart.