Freddie Freeman, Atlanta Braves. (Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports)
In an ideal world, the Braves would have already re-signed Freddie Freeman to a six-year contract. Yet, that’s anything but the case.
Freeman is the best first baseman on the free agent market, and one year removed from winning the NL MVP. His Braves won the World Series this past postseason, and he’s the face of the franchise — at least for now until he’s overtaken by Ronald Acuña Jr.
The 32-year-old would have plenty of suitors if any of them seriously believed he were leaving the Braves. Freeman’s camp has met with the Yankees, for starters, and he’s been rumored to teams like the Dodgers and Angels out West.
In recent days, nothing new has broken in regards to Freeman’s market. What does that mean for the Braves?
Braves: Freddie Freeman’s stagnant market
Freeman’s free agency hasn’t seen many significant updates since reports that he turned down a five-year offer from the Braves. He’s seeking a sixth year, and remains stubborn on that front for good reason. Atlanta would be lost without Freeman. He knows this. His agent knows this. The Braves know this.
Giving into Freeman’s demands is a matter of when, rather than if. That’s why any break in the action is actually a good thing for Atlanta, as it signifies that no other teams are stepping up to the plate while Freeman and the Braves take a brief hiatus in negotiations.
It would be a surprise if Freeman doesn’t re-sign with the Braves. He’s a career Brave in the Chipper Jones mold. So, why mess up a good thing?