Ten Possible MLB Contract Extensions Candidates

In today’s world, players look to sign a multi-year MLB contract prior to free agency, instead of going through the full arbitration process and waiting until free agency.

Last offseason, dozens of extensions were signed. Mike Trout, Jacob deGrom, and Nolan Arenado were some example of players who signed nine-figure extensions.

Here are 10 possible players who could be extended by their team next.

Kris Bryant, 3B

The 2016 National League Most Valuable Player and world champion is currently on a one-year, $12.9 million contract, with two years of arbitration left. Even though he has two more seasons after this one until free agency, there is a strong chance that the Chicago Cubs look to secure Bryant long-term.

The 27-year old’s 2018 campaign was shortened due to his first career injury. It was arguably his lowest producing year, but he still had an OPS of .834 through 102 games.

He will be looking for a huge MLB contract similar to Nolan Arenado’s eight-year, $260 million extension with the Colorado Rockies. He is only 27 and has been a key part of Chicago’s young core that has been to the postseason since he debuted in 2015.

He proves that he can hit for power, while still having a career batting average of .284. After leading the National League in strikeouts his rookie season, he has been striking out relatively less, decreasing the amount each season.

Bryant has been a crucial part of their lineup and a fantastic defensive third baseman, that can also provide versatility at other positions. A player like Bryant works well with a mindful manager like Joe Maddon because he can be used in different scenarios with different teammate due to his ability to play multiple positions. Chicago has plenty of money to spend and will definitely look to keep Bryant as a part of their long-term future.