For the Philadelphia Phillies, ex-Detroit Tiger Delmon Young is indeed worth the “weight.”
During the MLB off season, Young became a free agent. He had a decent season statistically, but struggled with off the field problems, including weight issues.
The Philadelphia Phillies decided that Young was worth the risk, signing the former Tiger to a one year contract for $750,000 dollars.
The most interesting part about the deal, is the “weight incentive” that is included in Young’s contract. Young will be stepping on the scale six separate times throughout the upcoming season, with the weight goal being 230 pounds.
Every time Young meets his expected weight, he will be paid an extra $100,000. Young could receive an extra $600,000 just for staying in shape.
Last season, Young was the designated hitter, meaning he would only bat; he did not play defense. Young has now been signed to a National League team, where there is no designated hitter position.
The Phillies signed Young to play in the outfield for the upcoming season, which involves a lot of running, jumping, and diving, so being at a certain weight is important.
“When I knew I wasn’t going to see the field, you could eat just a little bit extra,” Young told reporters. “I’ve been on a strict diet. You can get carried away on clubhouse food and late-night room service. Some ice cream and good luck cakes. But when you go back to the outfield, you have got to eat lighter.”
It will be interesting to see how this plays out, since Philadelphia is known for its famous cheesesteaks.
Young was awarded the American League Championship Series Most Valuable Player. He hit three home runs along with six runs- batted-in during the four game sweep of the New York Yankees to go to the World Series.
Young also endured off the field issues, which is a possible reason for the Tigers not resigning the free agent.
Last season, Young was suspended seven games due to a dispute during the late night hours in New York City.
After a regular season game against the New York Yankees, Young was accused of being involved in a drunken confrontation that ended with him yelling anti-Semitic statements at a New York City resident.
This was not the first time Young has been suspended for a significant period of time. In 2006 , he was suspended for 50 games for tossing his baseball bat at an umpire.
