TORONTO -- Catcher Ernie Whitt accepted a lesser contract from the Toronto Blue Jays to guarantee a 'sure thing' instead of testing the free-agent market.
Whitt, 34, one of three original players still with the American League club, agreed to contract terms to beat a deadline that would have made him ineligible to rejoin the club until May 1. He signed a contract that guaranteed two years with the third year a club option.
But Whitt, who helped the Blue Jays to the 1985 AL East title and hit .268 last season with 16 home runs and 56 RBI, said Friday he was disappointed because he is not on the same salary level with other catchers.
'I thought about it, discussed it with my wife and decided not to chance the free agent market,' Whitt said from his Michigan home. 'This was a sure thing. The other was a roll of the dice. I believe the owners are playing hardball and trying to drive salaries down but it's something that we as players have to live with for now.'
The Players' Association contends owners -- in violation of baseball's basic labor agreement -- are trying to force players into re-signing with their former clubs.
Whitt, who acted as his own negotiator, reportedly sought a three-year deal worth about $2 million. The club did not announce details of the contract but it was said to include an interest-free loan.
'I'm disappointed with the money and the fact it's only two years guaranteed,' Whitt said. 'It's a fair wage alright but I still feel it's not parity in terms of what other catchers in the league are making.'
Whitt, who earned $325,000 last season, said he wanted to finish his career in Toronto.
'I'm glad I'm staying,' he said. 'I just wish they thought more of me in terms of dollar value.'
