Paycheck or Playoffs

We have all had to make a similar decision. Do I take the job that pays the big bucks, or do I take the job that will allow me the time to coach Junior's little league team? Either way we go, we're usually able to justify our choice and move on contentedly. Major League Baseball players are no different. CC Sabathia in just three months became a hero in the city of Milwaukee. He could remain there the rest of his days and rarely pay for a thing out of his own pocket. Ditto for Manny in L.A., a city where there have already been many such heros, see Kobe Bryant or Orel Hershiser.

Yesterday we took a look at the situations of six of 2008's top pretenders and how they could use free agency to cement themselves into the role of contenders. Today the big picture spotlights the situation from the perspective of the players. Where might the big names wind up? What lesser-known players might draw a big payday? Which free agent will have the biggest impact in the coming year?

Head here to see what your team or favorite player is set to do this offseason:

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