All I can say is WOW! Who (besides Lee and the Phils) saw this coming? $120 million over 5 years vs. 7-year deals offered by the Yankees and Rangers at lower per-season $. This puts him in the rotation with Halladay, Hamels and Oswalt. If Hamels and Oswalt can stay healthy, it's by far the best 4-man rotation in MLB.
Let's analyze this. Lee is expected to choose between Texas and New York. He says Texas has the big advantage because its close to home, he loves the fans and they have no state income tax. The draw to New York is the seven year deal and his buddy Sabathia. Then he shocks everyone and goes to the Phils. The press strongly hints that it was because Yankee fans abused his wife in the playoffs. He says he loves Philadelphia even though he was there less than two months. If he thinks Yankee fans are tough wait until he gets a load of Phillie fans.
The New York press? Figures. If that is the case, then poetic justice prevails. He knows the Phillies fans. He's been there before. I'm guessing he just feels more comfortable in the NL. Hey! What's $20 million or so (the amount lower than the Yankee offer) compared to a better quality of life? :lol: :lol:
Other than the taxes, NJ is a great place to live. I know. Been there, done that, albeit many years ago. My gosh! Now that I think of it, it's been almost 50 years!