It doesn't seem like a lot of money, but the kicker is the no trade and no tag clause. So he becomes a free agent next year regardless. To me it looks like he's just betting on himself and he is keeping the opportunity to choose the team he goes to rather than getting stuck with whatever sad sack team traded for him. This way he can choose a team where he has the best chance to succeed and especially if he has a good season this year, he can make Bank. If he plays badly this year or gets hurt he loses the bet but I respect him swinging for the fences.
