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Nelson Cruz rumors: National League contract coming by end of weekend?

By Kevin Henry

ST PETERSBURG, FLORIDA - OCTOBER 07: Nelson Cruz #23 of the Tampa Bay Rays celebrates his solo homerun in the third inning against the Boston Red Sox during Game 1 of the American League Division Series at Tropicana Field on October 07, 2021 in St Petersburg, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)
ST PETERSBURG, FLORIDA - OCTOBER 07: Nelson Cruz #23 of the Tampa Bay Rays celebrates his solo homerun in the third inning against the Boston Red Sox during Game 1 of the American League Division Series at Tropicana Field on October 07, 2021 in St Petersburg, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) /
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The market for 41-year-old slugger Nelson Cruz is reportedly heating up quickly, with the designated hitter potentially finding a home in the National League by the end of the weekend.

Rumors say Nelson Cruz could sign a new contract very soon

According to MLB Network insider Jon Heyman, Cruz is “expected to have a deal by tomorrow (Sunday).” Coming off a season where he slugged a combined 32 home runs for the Minnesota Twins and Tampa Bay Rays, Cruz has shown not only what he can do on the field, but also displayed the veteran leadership he can bring to a clubhouse. This was shown by the Twins last season as Cruz was given an award for “the Twins player who exemplifies determination, hustle, tenacity, competitive spirit and leadership both on and off the field.” He was given this award after he had been traded by the Twins to Tampa Bay, plus it was the third consecutive year he had earned the award.

In his tweet, Heyman mentions that several National League teams, now that the designated hitter has been implemented in the NL, could use Cruz’s bat. One of those teams that may not chase Cruz, however, is the New York Mets, who have been adding to the roster in droves this offseason and already have plenty of candidates who can fill the designated hitter role.

Another National League team that is likely not looking at Cruz is the Colorado Rockies after general manager Bill Schmidt said in an interview that he didn’t believe the Rockies needed someone specifically for the DH role.

“I don’t think we have to get a Nelson Cruz or David Ortiz type of player for that role (designated hitter),” Schmidt said.

ESPN has reported that, among the National League teams that are pursuing Cruz are the Los Angeles Dodgers, San Diego Padres, and Milwaukee Brewers.

Next. 4 teams that could most use Cruz as their DH. dark

Should Cruz sign with a NL team, it would mark the first time in his career he has suited up outside of the American League since debuting with the Brewers in 2005.

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