Given the massive off season losses of top personnel, I could see Jarmo giving away the farm to save some face. If Z signs prior to the opening game, I'm guessing he gets $8 million per year-which is absurd given his liabilities defensively. But he has all of the leverage and he and his agent know it.
I think the road to a contract for Z is going to be a lot rockier than most anticipate. That being said, he will sign a deal tomorrow at team friendly terms.
I don't think Jarmo is worried about saving face. With JD gone, he and Zito could be the safest management duo in the league other than St. Louis. Small market Columbus went all in on adding talent and lots of money at the deadline, thats a sign of ownership believing in the men in charge. I don't think that would change even if we fall off, as they understand our losses.
I think 7-8 years 6-8 million per season would be a steal down the line. I don't think he will ever be known for his defensive abilities, but I don't think he was a liability either. His offensive gifts are worthy of a big contract, and I think his defensive game has made lots of strides especially comparing where he was when the year began. He still has his moments, but I think on most teams in the league he'd be a top pairing guy, and at 21-22 years old that's nothing to sniff at.