PDA

View Full Version : Astros file insurance claim on Bagwell


GaryMrMets
02-03-2006, 02:08 AM
http://www.msgnetwork.com/content_news.jsp?articleID=v927002-01-06-1917EST&docType=news&sports=baseball&league=mlb&team=other&newsgroup=baseball.mlb.news/other

Astros file insurance claim on Bagwell

Feb 01, 2006

HOUSTON (AP) - The Houston Astros filed an insurance claim on Jeff Bagwell's contract, arguing that the four-time All-Star is too hurt to play.

Bagwell is guaranteed $17 million this season, but by filing the claim, the Astros can recoup $15.6 million if Bagwell retires or is deemed too disabled to play.

Astros general manager Tim Purpura confirmed Wednesday night that the Astros filed the claim last week.

The 37-year-old Bagwell missed 115 games last season after surgery on his right shoulder, which has bothered him for four years. He returned late in the season and could bat, but he couldn't throw. He went 1-for-8 with an RBI and a run scored in the World Series.

The Astros had until Tuesday to file the claim. Doctors who examined Bagwell earlier in the month told the team that his shoulder was still damaged and that the team could not expect Bagwell to be productive this season.

Bagwell, however, has said he still intends to show up at spring training next month. Purpura and the Astros expect that, too.

"That's my understanding, that he's going to be there," Purpura said.

Bagwell's agent, Barry Axelrod, did not immediately return a phone message.

Bagwell has spent all of his 15 major league seasons in Houston and is one of the franchise's most popular players. The situation has caused a rift that Bagwell has said may be beyond repair.

Rocketsfan4L
02-03-2006, 12:57 PM
I think it was a good move if he is hurt and damaged you have to do what is best for the team. I mean yeah it sucks because he has done alot for the astros but we also have to remember this is still a business and they r doing what is right for the team. I mean if he can play well go for it but if he can't then it is time for him to just retire because I don't want him to be someone who stays in the game to long just because he can't let go. I love the stros and I hope they do what is best for the team and we can't just throw away 15 million on a player that isn't even going to help us. We can atleast get another player with that or something but hopefully this is all over with when the season starts because I just want to see baseball.