‘Riders Cut Dominguez To Avoid Paying Bonus
16/02/2009 05:22
Receiver Matt Dominguez has been cut by the Saskatchewan Roughriders.
According to various media reports, the Roughriders cut the 30-year old a day before he was due a large bonus with the team.
Dominguez, who had 19 catches for 267 yards and one touchdown last season, injured his knee for the third time on August 2 and could only return for two late season games. He was however not included on the playoff roster.
"I'm a veteran and you can see things coming," Dominguez told the Regina Leader-Post on Friday. "I'm like a lot of guys at this time of the season . . . I was due a bonus and some particulars in my contract. They wanted to re-work my contract and when they do that, then they have to release you."
Dominguez told the Leader-Post that his knee was feeling good, and he was even dunking a basketball.
Neither side has ruled out Dominguez's return for next season if he can show that he's healthy enough to contribute, though he will likely have to make less than the $120,000 per year plus bonuses that he reportedly made on his last contract.
"This isn't necessarily the end of the story, it's just pushing the pause button on Matt Dominguez," a Riders source told the Leader-Post.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
I think this is a real chinsy and dirty move by the ‘Riders organization – although, typical. Even though CFL contracts are not guaranteed, I’d be in favor of the player’s association looking into moves like this. And, if I were Dominguez, I’d be damned if I’d re-sign with the ‘Riders.