Why is a player with talent without a team? That’s the question many of Alex Verdugo’s former teammates, including New York Yankees stars Aaron Judge and Marcus Stroman, are asking! It’s a perplexing situation that has left many scratching their heads. A player with undeniable talent and a proven track record is still without a team. Despite a challenging 2024 season at the plate, he remains unsigned, leaving fans and players alike questioning why.

“I am surprised,” said Yankees right fielder Aaron Judge, adding, “He’s such a great player. He brings so much value and versatility to a team.” Manager Aaron Boone echoed similar sentiments: “Maybe a little bit surprised because he’s without question a big-league player and a big-league starting player, for me. He was great with us.” Even Yankees’ star pitcher Marcus Stroman was left stunned.

Stroman noted, “Yes, I am (surprised). That’s all I’m going to say on it. But a lot of things surprise in this game nowadays.” Despite his struggles at the plate last year, Verdugo was an asset in the field and a key part of the Yankees clubhouse. Verdugo made $8.7 million last season, and posted a disappointing .233 batting average in 2024, far below his career average of .281. Yet, his defensive abilities and team presence were as strong as ever.

Shortstop Anthony Volpe shared similar sentiments, calling Verdugo “one of my favorite teammates ever,” adding, “He helped us win games, whether it was on the field or what he could bring to the clubhouse.” Despite being a key part of the team, the Yankees moved on, turning to young players like Jasson Domínguez. Now, as the days pass and the new season approaches fast, the mystery of Alex Verdugo’s free agency remains unsolved. While many expected his phone to ring with offers, the silence continues.

Could his 2024 struggles overshadow his true potential, or is there something else keeping teams from pursuing him?

Alex Verdugo turns down $8 million deal

With just weeks left until the 2025 MLB season kicks off, former New York Yankees outfielder Alex Verdugo remains without a team. But the story took a twist when reports claimed that Verdugo turned down an $8 million offer! But why would a player with no significant deals turn down an offer? Verdugo’s decision to pass on the Pittsburgh Pirates’ offer has left baseball fans stunned. However, the Pirates ultimately signed Tommy Pham as his replacement, although the reason behind him turning down the offer still remains unknown.

After a disappointing season with .233 batting average and lackluster offensive numbers, Verdugo still brings value as a versatile and reliable outfielder. Additionally, the Pirates were not the only team showing interest—both the Houston Astros and Los Angeles Angels also inquired about his services. However, no team has yet been able to seal the deal.

Now the question that lingers is: Will a team step up to offer Verdugo a chance to bounce back from his toughest season, or will his wait for a new home extend even longer? Share your thoughts on this below.