Burnett vs. Garcia: Rich man, poor man

Pitcher Freddy Garcia, who was 12-6 with the White Sox last season, will earn $1.5 million only if he makes the Yankees.

Garcia will have to go through the relative indignity of being a non-roster spring training invitee, pitching his way on to the club over the likes of, for instance, former Cy Young Award winner Bartolo Colon. 

Meanwhile, A.J. Burnett, who was 10-15 in 2010,  will make $16.5 million regardless of what he does. He figures to be the third starter behind CC Sabathia and Phil Hughes. 

Garcia has a lifetime record of 133-87; Burnett is 110-100.

Garcia is not likely to injure himself in a tantrum, as Burnett did last season, not is is likely to show up with a black eye and offer no explanation, as Burnett also did.

Money aside, if Garcia pitches well, he could rise up the rotation ranks. Ivan Nova figures to be No. 4, but that's no guarantee. Garcia could supass him and then Burnett is well within striking distance.

Of course, Garcia has to first make the team, something Burnett does not have to be concerned about.