A FoxSports.com report says that Jim Thome turned down a more lucrative offer from Texas in order to sign with the Twins and stay closer to his family, which live in Chicago.
Thome was impressed with the Rangers and their recruitment of him. From the report:
“It was difficult,” Thome said. “Nolan Ryan is a legend. Getting the opportunity to have a conversation with him is something I’ll never forget in my life.
“I talked to (manager) Ron Washington. He’s a class act. (General manager) Jon Daniels, (assistant GM Thad) Levine, both those guys are wonderful guys. They did a terrific job. It’s a class, class organization.
“Minnesota is the same. You know Gardy (manager Ron Gardenhire). You know (GM) Bill Smith. What you see is what you get. We’re going to go out and play hard. That’s the way they do it.”
So Thome turned down more money in Texas to be closer to home and play in a spot where he's comfortable. Just like with Cliff Lee, the Rangers are stepping up and doing what they can to bring talent in, but you can't blame players for choosing a spot that works for their families.
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Thome Signs with Twins
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