Shortstop J.J. Hardy, acquired for Jim Hoey and Brett Jacobson this offseason, is having a standout offensive season. He has 11 home runs, including a home run in nine straight series.
The problem is he’s on a one-year contract worth slightly less than $6 million. There is no obvious replacement from the minor leagues for next season. So what contract should the Orioles extend to Hardy?
One issue here is Hardy’s injury history. He missed time earlier this season with a strained oblique and has also dealt with wrist problems. Hardy has been fairly durable this season, not missing any time after his oblique injury.
The other issue is how much will he cost the Orioles? Hardy should get a significant raise from his salary this year because of the year he’s having. He has been Baltimore’s most consistent player all season long. Currently, he’s hitting .303 in 192 at-bats.
Also, Hardy has filled in admirably in the leadoff spot as the team waits to see if Brian Roberts will come back from his second concussion in six months.
His defense has been a plus. I knew he was solid, but I didn’t think he was as good as he has been this season.
The Orioles want Hardy to serve as a bridge for top prospect Manny Machado. I wouldn’t expect to see Machado before 2013, so how long should they make Hardy’s contract?
I think Hardy and the Orioles should negotiate a three-year deal with an option for a third season. His salary could be anywhere from $7 million to $10 million.
If his option for that third season is picked up, we’re talking 2014 now, I can see Hardy being used as either the second baseman or a utility player. His bat is way too good to have him be an occasional player.
What do you think? What will it take the Orioles to extend Hardy?
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