Adam Dunn’s 2008 Option

This time of year we hear a lot about guys entering their walk years or guys with questionable team options for 2008.  Is Adam Dunn one such player?

The Reds have a $13MM option on him for ’08.  Obviously, they’ll take the wait and see approach after Dunn slipped to .234/.365/.490 last year.  PECOTA thinks he’ll bounce all the way back to .267/.390/.574 this season.

For ’08, they have him hitting .267/.398/.581, perhaps his peak season at age 28.  He could be worth $18MM according to BP’s projection system.  Unless Dunn completely flops this season, the option should be exercised.  Even if he reaches the midpoint of his projection and ’06 performance, it’s probably a smart move.  How many teams wouldn’t sign Dunn for one year and $13MM?

As far as Reds of the future, Jay Bruce will probably end up in right and Joey Votto at first.  That still leaves room for Dunn and his 40+ HRs in left.