Khris Davis' (Oakland A's) contract a head-scratcher, but he's content

[Auggie]

Opinion by Bruce Jenkins, San Francisco Chronicle / 4-18-10

Throughout his tenure as the most productive home-run hitter in the game, Khris Davis has repeatedly stated his desire to remain in Oakland. Perhaps nobody realized just how strongly he feels about it.

In a transaction that had people wondering — “What the heck is he thinking?” — Davis signed a two-year extension with the A’s on Thursday for essentially the same salary he’s making now. His 2019 contract is for $16.5 million, and the two-year extension total is $33.5 million.

That’s a stunningly good deal for Oakland, and wonderful news all around for the organization. And maybe it’s a little bit refreshing, Davis casting aside the big bucks for the sake of lifestyle and contentment. Remember, though, that since Davis joined the A’s in 2016, he has hit 143 home runs — more than anyone in the big leagues.

SNIP

Still, there’s no question Davis settled for less — without the slightest hesitation. “Oakland is perfect for Khris,” said a source close to the team. “He’s actually lived in the city at times. He loves the vibe. He likes that it’s low-key and he goes under the radar. He doesn’t care about accolades or money. He loves the team and his teammates. He’s a sweet, goofy, funny guy who knows where he is happy.”

https://www.sfchronicle.com/athletics/jenkins/article/Khris-Davis-contract-a-head-scratcher-but-13779146.php

Can you put a price on happiness? Kris Davis apparently has, and it's a bargain, even at $33.5 million.

[PeeJ52]

1. It is bewildering, but nice to see. I wish more ballplayers were like that.

I just keep thinking to myself, how much money do people need to die with. Unless you want to help countless numbers of others, any more than a million is a waste.

[Auggie]

2. I wonder, how much of it is the ballplayer and how much of it is the agent?

It's to the agent's benefit to get top dollar, of course.

[PeeJ52]

3. I wouldn't think it would be the agent, especially if he represents others...

other ballplayers really frown on stars taking "friendly" contracts. It makes their contracts go down for the qualifying offer in free agency and arbitration when comparing their output to other player's output.

[Auggie]

4. What I was trying to express (and obviously couldn't) ...

is that maybe there are lots of players who think like Davis' but are talked into larger contracts (or more prestigious franchises) by their agents.

[PeeJ52]

5. Oh, yeah... there probably are. A lot of them are talked into larger contracts by their union reps..

too...

[ProfessorGAC]

6. No Doubt That Happens

Then arguments about solidarity with the PA get brought in, and many of these players are still pretty young and lack business savvy and the bigger picture. Their focus has been so narrow, for so long, it would be easy to be talked into something like more $.

[Auggie]

8. I bet the word "respect" gets thrown around a lot.

That, and "Think of your family."

[JonLP24]

7. You could say that to the owners who are even more greedy

When an industry generates that much revenue I want labor to be fairly paid in line with all the money the sports league is making.