It was done. Over. Xander Bogaerts was set to walk away from the Boston Red Sox this offseason. He is set to exercise the opt-out clause in his contract and leave three years worth $60 million on the table as he looks for a better deal. Considering the Red Sox insulting offer during the preseason, there was no reason for him to stay.
However, as Lloyd Christmas once said, you’re telling me there’s a chance. Bogaerts has indicated that he would be willing to discuss an extension if the Red Sox showed a desire to meet with his representatives.
Boston Red Sox have one last chance with Xander Bogaerts
For their part, the Red Sox have said that they want to keep their All Star shortstop. However, that four year, $90 million offer, which essentially added one more year at $30 million to his existing contract, was viewed as a “slap in the face” by Bogaerts.
It is clear as to why Bogaerts and his representatives would feel that way given his track record. His price tag is only increasing as he has put together a .344/.393/.453 batting line in his 140 plate appearances entering Monday, hitting eight doubles and two homers. The power numbers may be down from years past, but his 145 OPS+ is currently his career best.
Likewise, Bogaerts would be in line for a much more significant contract in free agency. After seeing the types of deals that Corey Seager and Marcus Semien received, it is easy to imagine that Bogaerts would receive a much better offer than the Red Sox previous extension attempt. Even Trevor Story was given a better deal than Bogaerts was offered.
That is what the Red Sox are facing. Slapping another $30 million over one year on his existing contract is not going to be enough. The fact that Bogaerts is willing to listen should they be serious about an extension offer should be the reprieve they need to get this done. Otherwise, he will be walking out that door never to return.
Xander Bogaerts is leaving the door open for an extension with the Boston Red Sox. This is an opportunity they cannot afford to miss.