Their attitude and work ethic is outstanding. In 1998, Brewers outfielder Jeromy Burnitz was in a situation similar to the one Jenkins and Sexson faced this spring. Since then, baseball salaries have continued to spiral. Multi-year contracts are a risk for both sides. Owners risk giving money to a player who may become injured or unproductive.
Players get security for the chance to enter the skyrocketing market.
On the other hand, Boston saved millions by signing shortstop Nomar Garciaparra to a multi-year contract in 1998. Players including Gary Sheffield and Frank Thomas have created headlines this spring by demanding new contracts. Jenkins doesn't expect that to happen to him. Appeared in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel on Feb. 25, 2001. Journal Sentinel Inc. All rights reserved.