Steve Visconti donated $50 or more to the March Pledge Drive and gets to dedicate this post:

“To Lauren Lo Bue, to whom I owe practically everything.”

Nick Johnson received his security today, extending his contract through the 2009 season.

He signed a $3.2 million, one-year deal in January, avoiding arbitration. That contract stays in effect this season, followed by the extension, which will pay $5.5 million each season.

For all my criticism of Bowden, he does do the right thing every so often:

“If he doesn’t have the injuries, he’s in the $8-$10 million a year range,” general manager Jim Bowden said. “But he’s been hurt, so we hope he gets healthy, and if he’s healthy he has a real good deal. And if he doesn’t get healthy, we still have a good deal for what he brings to the table.”

He’s the second National signed to a long-term contract since January. I’m a bit surprised this is happening without a new owner in place. Or maybe the decision’s been made and approval’s been granted behind the scenes.
Baseball Musings is conducting a pledge drive in March. Click here for details.