In another inevitable move, Jerry Reinsdorf's favorite White Sox player returns to the club on a 3 year deal, which averages $12.5 million - or slightly more than the $12 million per year he received under his prior contract. This provides the necessary "raise" to ensure Konerko's pride remains intact. Continuing the offseason's leitmotif of creative contracts, the yearly terms are $12 million in both 2011 and 2012, and $6.5 million in 2013. The remainder of the money is to be paid in yearly $1 million installments in 2014 through 2020. Thus, in real terms, Konerko is actually taking a pay cut from his prior contract.
While three years is a dangerous commitment to make to any 35 year old baseball player, a fan and ownership favorite is always going to get more than he should. Welcome back, Paulie.