The difference is that the Brewers might want CC to opt out, no matter what, as he is likely to be very, very good fir the first 2-3 years of his contract, and less so the last 2-3 years. Essentially, it would be like the BRewers getting CC for a 3 year, 60 million dollar deal and then some other team paying him probably something close to 25 million while he gets into his late 30s. It is a brilliant move if the Brewers offer it.