…in the MLB Team Payroll category. That is, if everything goes according to Tom Hicks’ plan.

According to Jim Reeves’ column in the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Tom Hicks plans to cut the team’s payroll by $20 million by the 2010 season. Revo contends that the Rangers’ $68 million payroll in 2008 (which ranked 21st in the league) was too low. He says that the reduction “might just incite a riot among an already restless and frustrated Rangers fandom.”

In today’s Newberg Report, Jamey challenges that Revo (like many other DFW columnists) has taken quotes out of context in an attempt to create buzz and stir up trouble. He argues that the possible reduction in payroll would be the combined result of an influx of young talent and expiring veteran contracts. Jamey also mentions the Rangers’ increase in spending on international recruitment and on scouting and development.

I tend to lean toward Jamey’s side of the argument. He’s not selling anything.

The Rangers do have a long line of talented young guys (the best in baseball!) knocking on the clubhouse door. That means a less expensive lineup for the future.

However, I am concerned about how the Rangers will accomplish a $20 million reduction in payroll so quickly. Vicente Padilla, Hank Blalock and Frank Catalanotto will all be gone next year – that’s a given – eliminating around $21 million. Plus, Kevin Millwood could add another $10 million if he doesn’t earn his extension this year.

But what if he does manage to put together a comeback season. He will automatically earn an extension, which would be a win-win situation for both parties.  And what about extending Josh Hamilton’s contract, which I estimate will be somewhere around $7-8 million a year. The Rangers have also discussed offering Ben Sheets a deal to join the club (could be a bargain, but not cheap), provided his rehab goes as planned. And then there’s Nelson Cruz and Jarrod Saltalamacchia who, if recent performance is any indication of future success, will have  monster seasons in 2009. We all know how much the Rangers like to extend contracts before players get close to free agency!

I just don’t see how the Rangers can realistically shed $20 million in a year. And if they do, would it really be worth it? It would mean losing the top two guys in your rotation. That’s an awful lot of pressure to put on guys like Brandon McCarthy, Scott Feldman, Derek Holland and Neftali Feliz (provided their progress continues).

I understand the economy is tough right now. It’s tough on everyone, some more so than others. I have never been able to afford season tickets to the Rangers. I would buy them in a heartbeat if I could, but it’s just out of my price range. I did, however, purchase a 15 game mini-plan this season! It’s all about getting the most bang for your buck. It works for me and my wife!

I’m just not sure a $48 million payroll provides enough bang to push this team into contention. Hopefully, Jamey is right (as usual), and Revo just put the Galloway Spin on a few quotes.

What are your thoughts on the subject?

The Tampa Bay Rays put together a World Series contender for just under $44 million. Can the Rangers accomplish a similar feat?