The number of years is a huge issue, more so than the money. Conine and Cruz will likely put up pretty similar offensive numbers under far, far better contracts. I don't know if there's ever a reason to give a mediocre player, whose production could be easily replaced, a three-year deal. I would have much rather have gotten Conine, who didn't sign until January. Hendry signed Jones in late December. EDIT: It was reported that Conine agreed to terms with the Orioles on December 21st, the day after the Jones deal became official. Either way, Conine was still available to the Cubs.