Maddux Redux, Deux

ESPN reports that the Braves will now have to trade one of their starting pitchers to accommodate returning Greg Maddux's salary. Given that Hampton was already untradeable when the Braves acquired him, Maddux is staying, and Paul Byrd was just signed as a free agent, that leaves Kevin Millwood and Russ Ortiz. Millwood made $3.9 M in 2002 but could make more in 2003 given that he is arbitration eligible. Besides the Braves would probably want to keep Millwood for staff stability.

That leaves just Ortiz, who will make $4.4M in 2003 plus a $5.7 M option ($300 K buyout for 2004). It probably won't happen until Colon, Clemens, and Contreras find homes. (By the way, Philly.com reports that the Phillies are now pursuing the Cuban defector, meaning that Contreras will sign with another team within days.) Expect the team left standing when the music stops to go after Ortiz. Woudn't it be funny if it was division-rival Philadelphia?