As Major League Baseball officially enters its offseason, teams are actively evaluating whether to pick up or decline contract options for their players. This weekend, the Baltimore Orioles made their inaugural decision by choosing not to exercise Eloy Jimenez’s $16.5 million option for the 2025 season, marking a significant move as they consider their roster for the upcoming year.
In a noteworthy development, two notable left-handed pitchers have hit the free-agent market, and a potential third may follow suit. Blake Snell and Sean Manaea, both recognized for their talent on the mound, became free agents earlier this weekend, drawing considerable interest from teams looking to strengthen their pitching rotations.
Snell opted out of a one-year, $30 million deal in search of a more lucrative multi-year contract following an impressive season. Although he faced challenges during the year, missing a significant portion due to an adductor strain, Snell showcased substantial skill when he took the mound, solidifying his status as a desirable free agent.
Manaea also opted out of a smaller, one-year, $13.5 million contract. There’s ongoing debate regarding the left-handed pitcher, who previously played for the Mets. While he recorded a career-best 3.47 ERA last season, his overall career ERA of 4.10 raises some concerns among potential suitors. Despite their respective imperfections, both Snell and Manaea possess enough promise that they are expected to attract swift interest from teams eager to bolster their pitching options.
Orioles potential free agent targets begin to hit the market
In an even more significant twist, Yankees ace Gerrit Cole has opted out of the remaining four years and $144 million on his current contract. The decision complicates matters, as Cole’s opt-out gives the Yankees the opportunity to retain him by extending his contract for an additional year, bringing the total to five years at an eye-popping $180 million.
The immediate response, along with the predominant sentiment expressed by Yankees fans, is a belief that the organization will likely choose to retain Cole, even at the increased price. With the looming possibility of losing star outfielder Juan Soto this winter, the franchise cannot afford to let both Cole and Soto depart in the same offseason without severely impacting their competitiveness.
Moreover, former Cincinnati Reds pitcher Nick Martinez has also declined his player option, entering the free-agent pool. Martinez enjoyed a solid performance this year, boasting a commendable 3.10 ERA over 142.1 innings pitched. While he may not fit the traditional starter mold, his effectiveness in various roles could make him an appealing secondary option for the Orioles, contingent on how they proceed in their search for an ace.
Most team and player options are set to be resolved by the end of the day on Monday. The Orioles still have several decisions looming on their horizon, and fans can expect a flurry of unexpected player movements before the official start of free agency.
**Short Interview with Baseball Analyst Alex Thompson on Blake Snell’s Free Agency**
**Interviewer:** Welcome, Alex! With the offseason underway, we’ve seen some significant moves, including Blake Snell opting out of his contract with the Giants. What do you make of his decision?
**Alex Thompson:** Thanks for having me! Blake Snell’s decision to opt out of his one-year, $30 million contract is quite strategic. After an impressive yet injury-affected season, he’s looking to secure a multi-year deal, which is a smart move for a player of his caliber. He knows he has the talent to demand more long-term.
**Interviewer:** He did face some challenges last season, particularly with an adductor strain. Do you think those injuries will impact his market value?
**Alex Thompson:** It’s a valid concern. Injuries are always a tricky factor for teams, but Snell’s skill set and performance when healthy can’t be overlooked. His ability to still perform at a high level bodes well for his marketability. Teams will certainly weigh his injury history against his upside, but I believe he’ll generate significant interest.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned teams looking to bolster their pitching rotations. How do you see Snell fitting into potential teams’ strategies this offseason?
**Alex Thompson:** Several teams are in desperate need of pitching help, and Snell—being a lefty with a proven postseason pedigree—will attract attention from clubs aiming for immediate impact. Teams like the Yankees and the Dodgers, who have been linked to top-tier rotations, could be ideal fits. Additionally, his past performance in the playoffs will make him appealing for teams expecting to contend.
**Interviewer:** Speaking of pitching options, Sean Manaea has also opted out. How do you compare the two in terms of their value on the market?
**Alex Thompson:** That’s an interesting comparison. Snell is viewed as a top-tier talent, particularly after winning the Cy Young in 2018, while Manaea’s best season saw him average a 3.47 ERA last year. However, Manaea’s overall career ERA of 4.10 raises some eyebrows. Snell likely has the edge as a more coveted player, but Manaea won’t be without suitors, especially for teams looking for depth.
**Interviewer:** Lastly, any predictions on where Snell might land?
**Alex Thompson:** It’s early, but I wouldn’t be surprised to see him in a big-market team. The Yankees and Dodgers make sense, but keep an eye on teams like the Braves, who could use a lefty in their rotation. It’s going to be an intriguing offseason, and Snell’s decision will be central in determining how pitching markets unfold.
**Interviewer:** Thanks for your insights, Alex! We’ll be following these developments closely.
**Alex Thompson:** My pleasure! Excited to see how it all plays out.
