It is a near certainty that Xander Bogaerts will opt out of the remaining three years of his contract. The Boston Red Sox shortstop has not exactly been shy about his desire to be one of the highest paid shortstops in the game, and after seeing the type of contracts that Corey Seager and Francisco Lindor were able to command, he understandably has dollar signs in his eyes.
The only question is whether or not that would happen with the Red Sox. At this point, that is not going to be the case as he unequivocally stated that he does not expect to sign an extension with Boston prior to the start of the season. Considering that he has no interest in negotiating during the year, he is likely walking out that door.
Xander Bogaerts ready to leave Boston Red Sox for larger bank account
According to the Red Sox, Bogaerts representatives had asked for a deal with an average annual value in line with Seager, Lindor, and Carlos Correa. As the final three years of his contract are worth a total of $60 million, he is eyeing a considerable pay raise, one that the Red Sox may not be willing to match.
One can certainly say that the Red Sox saw this coming. They had signed Trevor Story during the offseason, slotting him in at second base to begin the season. But they clearly had an eye on the future as Story seemed to be their insurance policy in case Bogaerts opted out following the season.
It is understandable as to why Bogaerts would be looking for such a large contract. He has been one of the better offensive shortstops in the game, producing a .290/.353/.459 batting line with 141 homers and 270 doubles over his nine years in the majors. As he would still be in the middle of his prime once he reaches free agency, he would certainly stand a good chance of getting that desired contract.
Bogaerts would be entering a potentially crowded market however. Trea Turner and Dansby Swanson stand out as potential free agents, while Correa could opt out and look for a longer term deal. Even with all of those players potentially being available, Bogaerts’ production is certain to draw the type of contract he desires.
The clock is ticking on Xander Bogaerts’ time with the Boston Red Sox. Unless the Red Sox step up with a long term extension, he is gone after the season.