MLB Offseason Roundup: Why Are Big Free Agents Still Available?

This is one in a series of daily articles highlighting the latest news and notes from the MLB offseason.

At this stage of the MLB offseason, most free agents, especially the big-tickets, have already found homes for the upcoming season.

Well, this winter has moved at a snail’s pace. With only a few more days until pitchers and catchers report to spring training, there are still a number of significant free agents still on the board.

Among the top free agents still available are some of the best when free agency opened in November. Blake Snell won the second Cy Young of his career in 2023 and has yet to sign a contract. Cody Bellinger revitalized his career with the Chicago Cubs with a terrific season. Jordan Montgomery pitched well and won a World Series with the Texas Rangers, and third baseman Matt Chapman is one of the best defenders at his position and is a solid performer at the plate.

A common theme amongst the big four still available? They are all represented by Scott Boras’ agency. Boras has been known to wait as long as needed to land his clients the best possible deal. He usually makes it happen, even when it seems impossible.

The long-time agent isn’t afraid to play the waiting game until the asking price is met. So far, there hasn’t appeared to be any takers just yet.

Among the other notable free agents still available are — Jorge Soler, JD Martinez, Michael Lorenzen, Tim Anderson, Mike Clevinger, Whit Merrifield, Brandon Belt and a handful of others.

OTHER NEWS AND NOTES

• The Boston Red Sox signed free agent reliever Michael Fulmer to a two-year minor-league deal. Fulmer will miss the 2024 season after undergoing elbow surgery.
• The Tampa Bay Rays extended their highly-successful president of baseball operations Erik Neander and manager Kevin Cash. Best to keep a good thing rolling.

PBN LINKS

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