The Atlanta Braves have more competition for Freddie Freeman. Whenever the lockout ends, getting him back to the ATL won’t be easy.
Freeman is still expected to sign with the Braves when this is all said and done, which for all I know could be months. The 32-year-old is in search of a six-year contract. While he and the Braves are on the same page in terms of money, Atlanta GM Alex Anthopoulos is weary of offering anything over a five-year contract.
So, about one year and near $30 million stand between Freeman and the Braves. Believe it or not, that’s not much in MLB free agency terms, especially with a player of Freeman’s caliber.
Blue Jays: Could Toronto sign Freddie Freeman?
Per Blue Jays reporter Shi Davidi, the Jays and Freeman’s reps met to talk about Toronto’s interest just before the lockout.
“Freeman, obviously, didn’t sign before the shutdown and his fate won’t be decided until there’s a new CBA, and the expectation remains that he ends up back in Atlanta. But, the Blue Jays did meet with his representatives prior to the lockout and as they do on virtually every player who fits a need, checked on the first baseman.”
No, the position isn’t ideal. The Blue Jays already have Vlad Jr. at first base. They could move him over to the other corner at third, but that sacrifices some defensive flexibility.
Nonetheless, adding a lefty like Freeman to the lineup at a premium position is exactly what the Blue Jays could use. It’s what makes Freeman such an attractive commodity in the first place.
Toronto has the money to make a contract happen. If the Braves continue to doddle, then talks could heat up post-lockout.