James Shields Turned Down Bigger Offer From Giants Before Joining Padres

SAN FRANCISCO (CBS SF) - Apparently James Shields doesn't believe in the old saying "if you can't beat 'em, join 'em." CBS Sports reports he turned down a larger contract from the Giants weeks before agreeing to sign with the San Diego Padres.

John Heyman reports that that the Giants offered the Royals starter (whom they had just beaten twice in the World Series)$80 million over four years to join the starting rotation. "Big Game James" initially rejected that offer and the Giants pulled it. About a month later, Shields signed with NL West rival San Diego for $75 million over four years.

Shields' agent won't confirm the news, but did say that the pitcher did get higher yearly salary offers from other teams, according to Heyman's report.

• San Francisco Giants
• Major League Baseball