MLB teams need to get their shortstops now

This has been the golden era of shortstop free agency in Major League Baseball. For those MLB teams willing to spend at the top of the market, the likes of Carlos Correa (twice), Trea Turner, Corey Seager, Trevor Story, Xander Boagaerts, and other impressive players at the position, have been available in the open market.

This is also the time for teams to get a shortstop if they need one. Otherwise, unless one of the top shortstops in this year’s class signs a one year deal, it will be years before another top option comes available.

The MLB free agent shortstop market to dry up after 2022-23 offseason

As it currently stands, Brandon Crawford could be the top option available at short in the 2023-24 offseason. It is also worth noting that the Giants, Crawford’s current team, are looking for an upgrade at the position, speaks volumes as to what his value will be. Aside from Crawford, the other top options would be the perpetually injured Adalberto Mondesi, Isiah Kiner-Falefa, or Amed Rosario.

At least the 2024-25 offseason could have some notable options. Willy Adames and Tim Anderson will theoretically be available in free agency. Of course, that is contingent on their teams failing to sign them to an extension prior to that point. The same can be said for the 2025-26 offseason when Bo Bichette and Nico Hoerner would be the headliners.

That puts even more pressure on teams this offseason. There is not going to be a second, or possibly a third, chance to get it right. It is a matter of landing those players now or waiting for years and hoping that those future options do not sign an extension.

It is a golden era for shortstops in MLB free agency. After this offseason, the well is going to dry up. The time to add a shortstop is now.