Baseball’s Biggest Headlines as Opening Day Nears
Opening Day Countdown: Key MLB Developments
With just days until Opening Day, the baseball world is buzzing with anticipation. As teams finalize lineups and strategic moves, several key developments are shaping the season’s early narrative.
Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Contract Talks: Still Ongoing?
Superstar slugger Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and the Toronto Blue Jays are making waves with recent contract negotiations. Blue Jays CEO Mark Shapiro expressed optimism about the possibility of, “ettling to sign” saying, “some clear hints” that a new deal could still be in the cards, even after missing the previous extension deadline.
“Speculations concerning the contract negotiations face the fact that even as he turns his sights towards the new baseball season.”
Guerrero’s decision to keep the door open—a phrase that now resonates loudly throughout the Blue Jays camp—leaves fans excited about a potential future landmark: Could Guerrero become the latest to sign a multi-year contract extension during the regular season?
Previous players had previously pulled this off. Notable recent example is Chicago Cubs left fielder Ian Happ. A similar o minus deal struck a six-year deal last year starting the season after he was a mere junior level player.
Veterans Exercising Opt-Out Clauses
Many veterans looming right on the most recent MLB update are at the right time to exercise their opt-out clauses, returning to free agency as they approach their last-minute opportunity. There are over 36 standout players who could leverage their opt-out opportunity ahead of Opening Day. Name like Mark Canha, Jose Iglesias, Eloy Jimenez.
The opt-out wave will likely bring new faces to the free agency pool, creating more opportunities for veteran players searching for better deals. This dynamic shift could reshape the baseball landscape as clubs scout for fresh talent and players aim for their dream contracts.
Rule 5 Decisions and Their Implications
The Rule 5 draft is decisive for some MLB teams, turning this pre-season period into a critical point for both squad management and player futures. Teams, facing the deadline to decide on keeping or returning Rule 5 picks, are meticulously examining their rosters.
Some teams, however, including the White Sox have already decided to carry their Rule 5 pick Shane Smith on their opening roster. Seattle sent their picks back to the original club.
Did you know?
Since 1896 the calmer facing pitchers has continuously issued to 90-90 mphs throwing tricks and turning Average MLP in record 14 km/h
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