As spring training nears, MLB teams are shifting focus to securing long-term deals with key players. A new analysis highlights 10 candidates who could forgo free agency and ink extensions before Opening Day, including recent trade acquisitions and top prospects.
Spring training signals the start of 'extension season' in Major League Baseball, where teams prioritize retaining talent over external acquisitions. According to CBS Sports, more than a few players are expected to sign long-term deals between now and Opening Day, following last spring's agreements like Lawrence Butler's seven-year, $65.5 million contract with the Athletics and Cal Raleigh's six-year, $105 million pact with the Mariners.
The list of top candidates, in alphabetical order, includes pitchers and position players at various career stages. Cincinnati Reds left-hander Andrew Abbott, an All-Star with a 133 ERA+ over 413 2/3 innings, is four years from free agency; a deal similar to Tanner Bibee's five-year, $48 million extension with the Guardians is feasible. Atlanta Braves catcher Drake Baldwin, the NL Rookie of the Year, could command around seven years and $65.5 million, akin to Butler's deal, given his power and defense.
New York Yankees infielder Jazz Chisholm Jr., 28 and entering his prime, wants to stay long-term; his camp may target Willy Adames' seven-year, $182 million contract. Chicago Cubs second baseman Nico Hoerner, a core player, might settle for six years and $120 million despite modest power. Oakland Athletics catcher Shea Langeliers, with 60 home runs over two seasons, is three years out, projecting a six-year, $75 million extension like Sean Murphy's.
Detroit Tigers prospect Kevin McGonigle, yet to debut, boasts a .991 OPS in the minors and could mirror Jackson Chourio's eight-year, $82 million pre-debut deal. Los Angeles Angels shortstop Zach Neto, a Super Two, aligns with Maikel Garcia's five-year, $57.5 million pact. New York Mets pitcher Freddy Peralta, recently traded from Milwaukee, is open to talks, eyeing five years and $130 million like Ranger Suárez. Cleveland Guardians right-hander Gavin Williams and Seattle Mariners starter Bryan Woo both fit Bibee's framework at four years from free agency.
These extensions reflect teams' urgency to lock in value amid rising salaries, though outcomes depend on negotiations and performance.
