With Cody Bellinger returning to the Cubs, there is still a “Boras Four” on the market even as the calendar turns to March.
Kudos to the Cubs for holding out. But an $80 million deal with two opt-outs works well for Bellinger, who is still in his 20s and likely to be a free agent for the third year in a row. Many expected a long-term contract for Bellinger, but in reality, each team preferred him primarily for five years, and there is no benefit to him becoming a free agent at age 33, so it’s a big deal for Bellinger. didn’t work.
The rest of the Boras Four remains, including 36-year-old DH JD Martinez, who batted fourth in last year’s All-Star Game. The team clearly seems to be aware of deficiencies beyond our actions, and surprisingly this is the case with current National League Cy Young Award winner Blake Snell. He posted a 1.20 ERA after May 25, which was exactly twice as high as the next best starting pitcher (Kyle Bradish, 2.40).
Either way, the landing spot guessing game continues. Our best guess is…
1. Blake Snell
If the Yankees acquire him, they will have one of the best one-two pitching combos in the game and will be a favorite to win the World Series, even better than the Dodgers. But in addition, he will also be subject to a $30 million luxury tax. The Yankees like him (Gerrit Cole and Aaron Judge are believed to be fans), but his taxes are a hurdle. The Giants, on the other hand, still have the room to be the extra incentive they need, with fans looking for a star and two injured players in the rotation (Tristan Beck and Keaton Wynn).
Best guess: giants
Other guesses: Yankees, Angels.
2. Jordan Montgomery
Coach Snell plans to opt out and make it in the short term, but Montgomery, a stable and durable coach, is looking to the long term. The Red Sox held a Zoom conference call, but it feels like ownership is focusing on golf, soccer and hockey, expanding their sports empire. The Rangers’ RSN problem was resolved, but winning the World Series probably lessened ownership’s motivation (ironically, Montgomery helped there). The Mets debated it internally. The Yankees seem to like Snell. If the Giants are unable to acquire Snell, he may be available.
Best guess: rangers
Other guesses: Giants, Red Sox, Cubs, Mets, Yankees.
3. Matt Chapman
The injury season, in which he played through hand pain and hit .240 (.210 since April), has given the team pause. Giants manager Bob Melvin has been a big fan since his days with the Athletics.
Best guess: giants
Other guesses: Cubs, Jays, Mariners.
4. JD Martinez
He’d be a great fit to bat behind slugging star Pete Alonso, but the Mets have the same four-tier tax situation as the Yankees. The Giants offered him $15 million, but he turned it down.
Best guess: rangers
Other guesses: Angels, Mets, Giants.
