The Opener: Correa, SP Market, Rangers
1. What will happen to the Correa-Mets contract following new medical concerns?
News emerged over the weekend revealing the Mets flagged a right ankle problem in a physical Carlos Correa, which was the final step before the two companies signed a 12-year, $315 million deal. The issue is reportedly the same one that gave the Giants enough pause for his 13-year, $350 million contract with Correa to collapse. The New York Post’s Jon Heyman reports that the deal is still expected to close, noting that other teams checked into Correa over the weekend, but the companies are still determined to work things out. It’s being worked on. Heyman suggests that the contract’s language may be amended to address New York’s concerns. JD Martinezsigned a five-year contract with the club prior to the 2018 season.
2. Will the last starter start to leave the board?
Reports surfaced last weekend about the top three starting pitching targets left on the free agent market. Nathan Evaldi Connected with Padres, Angels, and AL East Mystery Team, Angels Connected Corey Kluber Padres is also linked Johnny CuetoBoth teams certainly make sense as landing spots for the aforementioned free agent starters. Angels has a solid 5-slot option in rotation, but he usually has a 6-man rotation to accommodate Unicorn superstars. Shohei OhtaniOn the other hand, the Padres have a relatively thin rotation even after the addition. Seth Lugo, especially when compared to the incredibly deep lineup and strong bullpen. But one of his factors that could disrupt the starting pitching market is Red his Sox’s sudden willingness to heed offers for the frequently injured ace. Chris SaleSale was one of the best starters in the game, including being in the All-Star Game for seven straight seasons from 2012-2018 and earning Cy Young votes. A series of injuries kept Sale largely off the field from 2020 to 2022, though he pitched less than 50 innings during that time. Sale certainly offers an attractive advantage over any other starter, but if his injury woes continue, the acquiring club could be put on the hook for his hefty salary.
3. Can the Rangers add the bat they need?
Rangers were reportedly finalists for the next service. Michael Conforto before he landed in San Francisco on a two-year contract. This has left Texas in an offseason and desperately in need of outfield help. Leodi Taveras When Adris Garcia They look like they can handle the bulk of their starting lineup in center field and right field, respectively, heading into the 2023 season. Josh Smith When Brad Miller Among the list of internal options that do not inspire confidence.Outside of long shot trades for big bats like Brian Reynoldsthe club seems likely to add a bat from free agency. Jurickson Profer When Trey Mancini Looking for the only clear daily player available. If these he fails to add his one of the two players, the Rangers can add multiple players to combine left and DH to match. Mitch Garber Mostly played in 2022. Options for such ventures include: Rafael Ortega, David Peralta, AJ PollockWhen Andrew McCutchen.