It does seem like an archaic, useless exercise now. Everybody is projecting a “salary”…. And they usually settle somewhere in the middle in the majority of these cases. Why not just set out the parameters for that middle number and then everybody knows what they’re in for.
He threw some shade at the Astros that indicated he was pissed off - saying he was surprised by how they valued him, etc - but also said he was over ti and understood it was a business. And as you said, he proceeded to have a great season. I think Corbin Burnes was an exception - it happens occasionally. He was pretty pissed and openly said it soured any chances of staying long-term with the Brewers. And that was amusingly over a $740,000 difference. Fallout of Corbin Burnes’ arbitration hearing following troublesome pattern for Brewers - Brew Crew Ball
Astros not serious until another bat is signed. I am fearful of the pen too. Kinda feel like we need a bat AND a good bullpen arm.
Played for the Cub Org last year = "former Cub" I guess he's not a "current Astro" since he hasn't played for us yet, so we're both wrong?
Gotta find an OF bat, They can fill in the bullpen at the deadline if the current options dont workout.
Guessing they extend Paredes too, and, as discussed elsewhere on the board, there's a possibility they get an additional draft pick if Smith meets the requirements for PPI. It's sad to see a talent like Tucker leave, but this is what smart teams without unlimited budget have to do to extend their window to compete. Also, I think Crane really liked the production he got from Uncle Mike's first contract. That's his ideal FA contract, and he tried to replicate that with Abreu and Walker signings. Nothing wrong with that approach as long as Dana can find some studs in the draft and the major league scouts can identify the right FAs.
I could see it, but if Smith sticks at 3b and is the real deal, they may just ride with the 3 seasons, or even trade him before 2027 like they did Tucker. I could see a world with Matthews at 2b, Smith at 3b, and Yordan/Altuve taking all DH time. That leaves no place for Paredes on FA/extension salary.
I could see a world where after the All Star break Matthews is playing CF, Smith RF, Arenado 3B and Parades 2B. But More likely Smith 3B, Parades 2B and Dezenzo RF with Matthews eventually becoming the CF in 2026.
