The baseball season is only 11 days away (excluding the upcoming Seoul Series), and MLB teams are hurrying to complete their Opening Day rosters. While the majority of the big names have already signed contracts for the 2024 season, several exceptional players are still looking for a home.
Blake Snell may be the most accomplished free agent left following a flurry of action in recent months. In recent seasons, teams have spent for last-minute acquisitions, but this year appears to be different. Despite his strong resume, Snell and his agency are having difficulty securing a suitable contract.
According to MLB columnist Bob Nightengale, the Houston Astros are the latest team to pass on the left-handed pitcher. Houston is looking for an experienced arm after Justin Verlander went on the injured list to start the season. Blake’s asking price, however, appears to be a roadblock in the negotiations.
“They have baulked at Snell’s asking price of at least a two-year guarantee for $60 million, with an opt-out after the 2024 season. The Astros’ main concern is that they would be above another luxury tax barrier if they pay Snell close to $30 million per year.”
The Astros will begin the season with World Series champions Framber Valdez, Christian Javier, and Jose Urquidy in the starting rotation. With the return of three-time Cy Young winner Verlander, the club’s rotation will be one of the strongest in the AL.
The New York Yankees were believed to be interested in Snell last month, but no agreement was reached.
Snell is a two-time Cy Young Award winner and former All-Star. Last season, he went 14-9 with a 2.25 ERA for the San Diego Padres. The 31-year-old also recorded an astounding 234 strikeouts in only 180 innings pitched.
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