PHOENIX, AZ – JUNE 03: Freddie Freeman #5 of the Atlanta Braves is congratulated at home plate by Cameron Maybin #25 and Jace Peterson #8 after Freeman hit a three-run home run against the Arizona Diamondbacks during the second inning of the MLB game at Chase Field on June 3, 2015 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
Former MLB outfielder Cameron Maybin is surprised that the Atlanta Braves have not signed star first baseman Freddie Freeman to a new contract.
After winning the World Series, the Atlanta Braves had an important offseason to help keep their contending window open. One of their free agents was star first baseman Freddie Freeman, who spent the entirety of his career in Atlanta. Yet, they were unable to agree to terms ahead of the MLB lockout.
Former MLB outfielder and former teammate of Freeman, Cameron Maybin took to Twitter to express his confusion as to why the Braves were unable to sign the first baseman to a new contract.
Cameron Maybin surprised Braves have not signed Freddie Freeman to new contract
Braves fans probably share that exact same sentiment.
Once the MLB season ended, MLB Network insider Jon Heyman reported that Freeman was looking for a six-year contract worth $180 million. The terms seemed fair enough for Braves fans, as they implored the team to re-sign the face of their franchise. Yet, there was no progress on a deal before the league paused business until they could come to terms on a new collective bargaining agreement.
There is reason to worry for the fanbase if Atlanta were unable or unwilling to bring him back on his asking price. Heyman tweeted out this week that the New York Yankees are expected to make a run at Freeman. Yes, the Yankees may not have made any prominent moves this offseason, but they are notorious for entering bidding wars for free agents they want. The Yankees have a need at first base, and they could drive up the price to sign Freeman and solidify the position.
The only thing Braves fans can do is wait for the lockout to end. Once that happens, then keep your eyes peeled for any word on Freeman’s free agency and where he will play in 2022 and beyond.