The 2021-22 MLB free agent class is one of the most talented in years, led by a star-studded shortstop group that included Corey Seager, Carlos Correa, Trevor Story and Javier Baez, among others.
As a potential lockout loomed earlier this month, several top players prioritized signing deals before all business came to a halt. Seager was among them, as he agreed to a 10-year, $325 million contract with the Texas Rangers.
The Rangers were one of several teams to express interest in Seager, along with the New York Yankees, who also are looking to upgrade the shortstop position.
In a survey conducted by ESPN, many executives believed the Yankees were the best fit for Seager before he signed with the Rangers:
“The Yankees need Seager,” another voter said. “They can’t add another right-handed bat when a lefty-hitting shortstop is staring at them. It makes too much sense. And we know he can handle the spotlight after playing in Los Angeles. I pick him as the guy least fazed by accepting a huge free-agent contract to play in New York.”
Of the 20 executives who participated in the poll, 12 selected the Yankees to sign Seager. Four picked the Detroit Tigers, and the Rangers and Dodgers each received two votes.
Seager was a natural fit for the Yankees as he bats left-handed and would’ve added balance to their mostly right-handed hitting lineup. However, it appears they are looking for more of a stopgap option at shortstop, with two of their three top prospects capable of playing the position.
With Seager now bound for Texas, the Dodgers will receive a compensation pick after the fourth round in next year’s MLB Draft due to the star shortstop being extended — and declining — the $18.4 million qualifying offer.
Seager reportedly turned down contract extension with Dodgers
Prior to the start of the 2021 season, the Dodgers reportedly approached Seager with an eight-year, $250 million contract extension that he rejected during Spring Training.
Seager turning down the Dodgers’ lucrative contract extension wound up being a financially prudent decision as he received two more guaranteed years and an additional $75 million from the Rangers.
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