Boras compares Matt Holliday to Mark Teixeira

Which means he’s probably seeking a similar deal.

Anyway, here’s Boras’ pitch comparing his two prized players:

“These guys are blue-collar superstars,” Boras said. “They don’t hit 50 home runs, but they’re complete players. They can give you something without swinging a bat.”

Teixeira signed with the New York Yankees last winter, for $180 million. Boras would not say what his asking price would be for Holliday, but he made clear he considered Holliday’s abilities in getting on base, hitting for power and playing superior defense similar to those of Teixeira.

“There are differences between hitters and complete players,” Boras said. “Matt Holliday is a complete player.

“There is, frankly, no one like him in the market.”

Despite Scott Boras’ claims, there are actual differences between Holliday and Teixeira. For one, Teixeira is a switch-hitter and his power has never been questioned. Conversely, Holliday, though a talented offensive player, is not a switch-hitter and his power has been a topic of discussion in the past (in relation to Coors Field, for example). Further, Mark Teixeira is proven in both the American and National League, while Holliday is often characterized as a National League player. And, finally, Holliday plays a more demanding position, physically, in left field whereas Teixeira does not, making it easier for Teixeira, rather than Holliday, to receive the longer contract (there is less risk involved). These are the primary differences between Boras’ two clients.

However, while it pains me to say this given Boras’ intentions behind the comparison, I entirely agree with his assessment of Holliday. He is, indeed, a complete baseball player, in that he has speed, power, and patience, plus a good glove (his clubhouse persona has also never been questioned or criticized). These particular attributes will ultimately benefit him once he reaches free agency, but, sadly for Holliday, I doubt that he’ll receive a deal worth more than $110-120 million (from the Yankees or any other team). The market is still depressed and there aren’t many teams willing to venture past the $100 million threshold during this stretch of economic uncertainty. Therefore, much to the dismay or Scott Boras, I believe that the list of legitimate suitors for Holliday’s services will be Gary Coleman-like in its length (which is a good thing for those who want to see Holliday in pinstripes).