There is a growing trend around Major League Baseball of teams signing their top young players to lucrative contract extensions long before they are eligible for arbitration or free agency. While it is a gamble, it could pay off in the long run if the player lives up to the potential he has shown and becomes a huge bargain down the road.
The Cleveland Guardians are always looking for an edge when it comes to managing their payroll, so this scenario puts them in something of a bind. They certainly would like to ensure cost control when it comes to their young talent, but they also want to avoid spending too much money before they feel comfortable doing so.
With that in mind, insider Paul Hoynes is warning the Guardians about a potential extension for second baseman Travis Bazzana, who, despite an excellent All-Star rookie season to date, still needs to improve in some key areas.
“To me, if I’m the Guardians and there’s an ownership change perhaps coming in the next year or two, I’m waiting, I’m waiting on that and I’m waiting for Travis to show me I should extend him,” Hoynes said. “I want to see some consistent play. I want to see a consistent offensive player, you know, a better defensive player before I start thinking of an extension.”
To make matters more complicated, several factors are weighing on this scenario that have nothing to do with Bazzana’s play. Minority owner David Blitzer could take over from the Dolan family after the 2027 season, which could vastly change the franchise’s spending patterns.
The current MLB labor negotiations also play a role. With the financial structure of the sport in line for a potentially huge change, it may be either wise or foolish to make a long-term commitment without knowing what the rules are going to be, including a potential salary cap with a corresponding floor.
Yet, that hasn’t stopped teams from issuing these deals, with Cincinnati Reds pitcher Chase Burns the latest to receive one. The 23-year-old, who was the No. 2 overall pick in the 2024 MLB Draft, after Bazzana was the No. 1 overall selection, recently received a seven-year, $105 million contract that will run through the 2033 season. Position players from that draft, including No. 7 pick JJ Wetherholt of the St. Louis Cardinals and No. 9 pick Konnor Griffin of the Pittsburgh Pirates, already received longer, more expensive contracts.
The Guardians may decide to make an offer to Bazzana, fully aware of the benefits, but also the risks involved.
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