Joba Chamberlain is 30 now. He almost certainly is going to have the least substantial career — and earn the least money – from what once was supposed to be the Yankees rotation of the future with Phil Hughes and Ian Kennedy.
In Chamberlain’s latest attempt at career rejuvenation, he signed a minor league contract with the Indians that will pay him a base of $1 million if he makes the majors with a chance to earn bonuses based on games and games finished.
He will now pitch home games at the site of his most infamous moment as a player. It was in Cleveland in Game 2 of the Division Series in 2007 where Chamberlain became unhinged when swarmed by midges, squandering an eighth-inning lead in a game and series the Yankees ultimately would lose.
After announcing the signing, the Indians wrote on Twitter: “We apologize sincerely, @Joba_44, about the bugs. They won’t be back, we promise.”
The Yankees responded on their Twitter account: “Oh, NOW you take care of the bugs …”
Chamberlain has more to worry about than insects, obviously. He is coming off the worst year of his career (4.88 ERA for the Tigers and Royals).
Chamberlain had a long conversation with Indians manager Terry Francona before the sides agreed to this deal. Under Francona the past two years, the Indians have had among the majors’ best bullpens without deploying big-name relievers, which appealed to Chamberlain as he tries to rebound.