Several high-profile MLB players have opted out of their contracts as free agency begins. Notable names include Alex Bregman, Cody Bellinger, and Edwin Diaz, all set to explore new opportunities.
Bregman, Bellinger, and Diaz Lead the Free Agency Wave
Alex Bregman, a third baseman for the Boston Red Sox, has chosen to forgo the last two years of his three-year, $120 million contract. This marks Bregman’s second consecutive entry into free agency. The 31-year-old had a promising start this past season, batting .299 with 11 home runs and 35 RBIs. However, a quad injury sidelined him from late May to mid-July. He concluded the season with a batting average of .273, 18 home runs, and 62 RBIs.
Cody Bellinger, an outfielder and first baseman for the New York Yankees, also opted out. He turned down a $25 million option after posting a .302 batting average and 18 home runs at Yankee Stadium. However, Bellinger struggled on the road, where he hit .241 with 11 home runs.
Edwin Diaz and Other Notable Free Agents
Edwin Diaz, the closer for the New York Mets, opted out of his two-year, $37 million contract. At 31 years old, Diaz had an impressive season, securing 28 saves with a 1.68 ERA and striking out 98 batters. Additionally, first baseman Pete Alonso, who is also from the Mets, declined his $24 million player option. Alonso’s impressive stats included a .272 batting average, 38 home runs, and 126 RBIs.
- Robert Suarez (San Diego Padres): Opted out of a two-year, $16 million deal after leading the National League with 40 saves.
- Michael King (San Diego Padres): Entered free agency after a guaranteed $7.75 million contract included a buyout option.
- Brandon Woodruff (Milwaukee Brewers): Opted out of a $20 million mutual option in favor of a $10 million buyout.
- Ha-Seong Kim: Opted out of a $16 million deal with the Atlanta Braves.
- Lucas Giolito: Declined a mutual option worth $19 million with the Red Sox.
- Michael Lorenzen (Kansas City Royals): The team declined a $12 million option with a $1.5 million buyout.
- Mitch Garver (Seattle Mariners): Did not return with a $12 million option and an associated $1 million buyout.
As the MLB free agency market opens, over 140 players have opted out, with more expected in the coming days. This period promises to bring significant changes to team rosters across the league.
