Player Profile: Brett Myers

Brett Myers was a first round pick of the Philadelphia Phillies back in 1999. The highly touted right-handed starter spent one season at each level of the minor leagues before debuting with the Phillies in July of 2002. Myers proved to be a durable starter for the Phils but never really lived up to expectations. Off the field issues including a run-in with a reporter and a marital squabble that resulted in an arrest for domestic violence added to the disappointment. In 2007 the Phillies decided to try Myers in the closer’s role. The experiment proved to be only marginally successful and was scrapped after one season. Myers returned to the rotation in ’08 and struggled, going 10-13 with a 4.55 ERA. But Myers had a productive post-season on the mound and with the bat, helping the Phillies claim their first World Series title in 27 years.

Myers missed a large part of 2009 with a hip injury, making only ten starts and eight relief appearances. The Phillies didn’t get their $12 million worth in ’09 and decided to part ways with Myers, allowing him to become a Free Agent. Ed Wade, who originally drafted Myers, signed Brett to a one-year $3.1 million contract to join the Astros rotation. Myers turned in a career year that resulted in a substantial raise. Wade and the Astros signed Myers to a two-year extension with a club option for 2013. A disappointing 2011 season means Myers will need a stellar 2012 to have any chance of the team picking up his 2013 option. Chances are the Astros will exercise their $3 million buyout if Myers is still with the club.

Trade rumors involving Myers have circulated this winter. His contract has probably scared away most suitors. Unsubstantiated reports have suggested that the Astros are willing to provide some type of salary relief for prospective trade partners. The team may be better off keeping Myers in the rotation, as he provides a veteran presence and is a dependable innings-eater. A trading deadline deal could be a more likely scenario.