Starting pitcher Cole Hamels agreed to a six-year, $140 million deal with the Philadelphia Phillies. The contract is the second richest pitching contract ever. The Phillies could have signed Hamels a year ago for about $100 million. While there is no doubt that the Phillies could have played this one better, the question remains: Is Hamels worth it?

The only contract to exceed Hamels’ deal is C.C. Sabathia’s seven-year, $161 million which was extended anopther year for $30 million. Sabathia played under his new contract with the New York Yankees when he was 28. Hamels is also currently 28.

Hamels lifetime numbers: 3.38 ERA, 221 IP/ 162 games, 10 complete games, 4 shutouts, 8.5 K/9, 25.7 WAR.

Sabathia’s numbers at 28: 3.62 ERA, 210 IP/ 162 games, 28 complete games, 11 shutouts, 7.6 K/9 , 36.3 WAR.

Sabathia may have a better chance of taking lights out stuff to the mound on a given day, but Hamels provides the more consistent dominance. The difference in WAR is explained by Hamels having only 6.5 seasons under his belt compared to Sabathia’s nine at age 28. Hamels lifetime WHIP is also lower than Sabathia’s at age 28 (1.139 vs. 1.232)

The Phillies may have been able to land Hamels for cheaper a year ago, but they still got below market value for one of the best young left-handed pitchers in baseball. Sabathia has thrived since entering his prime pitching years (last 20’s through early 30’s) and the Phillies hope Hamels will do the same.

The Big Guy