Carlos Correa expected to opt out of Minnesota Twins contract

Carlos Correa was expected to receive a significant contract during the 2022-23 offseason. While he did land a deal worth $35.1 million per year from the Minnesota Twins, it was for just three years at most. Correa had a pair of out-out clauses, after 2022 and 2023, in his contract, allowing him to test free agency in search of a more significant deal if he so desired.

It seems as though he will do exactly that. According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, Correa is expected to exercise his opt-out clause and return to free agency after this season.

Minnesota Twins may have just one year of Carlos Correa

Such a move would put Correa in a similar spot to where he was last year. He faced a crowded shortstop class in free agency, leaving him as the last of the big names at the position to sign. Should he opt out of his contract, he will be battling with Zander Bogaerts, Dansby Swanson, and Trea Turner for that larger contract.

While Correa has not produced at the same level this year that he did in 2021, he has still been a solid part of the Twins lineup. He has posted a .264/.340/.427 batting line in his 371 plate appearances entering Friday, hitting 13 homers and 15 doubles.

Correa should also have plenty of suitors. The Twins could be interested in a reunion, especially after Correa’s comments about how he enjoys Minnesota. The Cubs are also likely to be one of his top suitors after he was linked to the franchise for much of the previous offseason. Add in other teams looking to make a splash, and Correa should land a better deal.

Carlos Correa is expected to opt out of his contract with the Minnesota Twins this offseason. It is a gamble, but one that could pay off.