Pat Burrell has made it clear that he would very much like to stay in Philadelphia with the Phillies to finish his career. The free agent left fielder is riding quite the high right now after helping the Fightin's win the World Series for the first time since 1980.
Across the Delaware River from Philadelphia is Camden, NJ home to the Camden Riversharks of the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball, an independent league not affiliated with Major League Baseball. The team has recently expressed interest in Burrell.
The ALPB attracts players trying to make the majors, minor league lifers and former Major League players attempting to extend their careers. Burrell does not fit any of these catagories as he finds himself in the prime of his career.
This fact sheds light on just how much Burrell likes the area and wants to remain here , which could play a huge factor in the amount the player is paid.
"I love it here. I have no interest in leaving the city for another MLB team. The area is my home and I would sign with the Riversharks to stay here," said Burrell.
If Burrell does sign with the Riversharks the team announced they would play all of their weekend home games in Citizens Bank Park. The team's third jersey for Sunday afternoons would be identical to the Phillies' home uniforms. Twelve roster spots would also be eliminated to free salary space.
"Pat would fit in nicely here. His 86 RBI's and .250 batting average would lead the league or at least the division," said Sharks' manager, Jerry Tilden.
After learning of Camden's interest the Phillies have decided to open talks with Burrell's agent. Let the bidding war begin.
Notes: Former MLB all-star Rickey Henderson played on the Newark Bears of the Atlantic League after retiring from the majors. In 2006 the Riversharks tried to lure Hank Aaron out of retirement by offering a two-year contract.
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