That's definitely wise, especially when you're the Oakland A's, but what if you're the Red Sox or the Cubs and you have the money. Is it good to let the talent walk and get the picks and rebuild the back end of your bullpen over and over again? Truly asking... The difficulty I have with locking up Marmol for big years and money is that he always seems like he's one bad pitch away from having his right arm fly into the fifth row behind home plate. Plus, there are a number of guys in the high minors who could step forward in the next year or two who could provide quality outings for much cheaper than Marmol. Plus, I have to think Marmol's 15.99 K/9 and 0.12 HR/9 will regress next season. Relievers with big contracts always make me skittish. Marmol is no exception. Anything over two years would be difficult to stomach if his production falls off. How is that different than any other pitcher?