Hicks actually produced a career high in bWAR last year (only 0.9 but that is about Hicks more than it is about starting). Track record on converting relievers is not awful, especially when you consider the reward is a pitcher throwing 3 times as many innings potentially. If it works 25% of the time it is probably good for the team because of the innings you are getting and the potential discount of a starter at reliever pay rates. It kind of worked with Schilling remember.
I don't think starting will affect what Hoffman gets paid at all. He is still looking at a 3 year deal for somewhere in the $10-$15 AAV range. Starting matters because that might be how Hoffman chooses a team depending on their willingness to let him start (or a shot at it anyway). He'll still get paid like a late inning reliever though.
