USA Today via Reuters
Oct 12, 2021; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Houston Astros shortstop Carlos Correa (1) reacts after hitting a two-run RBI double against the Chicago White Sox during the third inning in game four of the 2021 ALDS at Guaranteed Rate Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-USA TODAY Sports | Courtesy Reuters
USA Today via Reuters
Oct 12, 2021; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Houston Astros shortstop Carlos Correa (1) reacts after hitting a two-run RBI double against the Chicago White Sox during the third inning in game four of the 2021 ALDS at Guaranteed Rate Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-USA TODAY Sports | Courtesy Reuters
Tables have been turning drastically in the Carlos Correa signing race, with the top franchise like New York Yankees, Chicago Cubs, and Houston Astros as competitors. Interestingly, the slow moves by Yankees before the lockout pulled down their position in the pursuit for Correa.
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However, a new report has brought back Yankees right on the top, as they have a strong advantage over others. Whereas, the Cubs have gone from being the front runners, to being hesitant in signing Correa.
New York Yankees can offer the deal Carlos wants
After becoming the top free agent in the market, baseball shortstop, Carlos Correa was expected to grab a $300 million deal before the lockout. Although the lockout has stopped any transactions, Carlos is still the talk of the town. Lately, he was strongly linked to Chicago Cubs; however, a new report has brought in upsetting news for Cubs fans.
USA Today via Reuters
Oct 8, 2021; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Astros shortstop Carlos Correa (1) looks to the dugout during the game against the Chicago White Sox in game two of the 2021 ALDS at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Shea-USA TODAY Sports | Courtesy Reuters
The Cubs are interested in Carlos, but they aren’t looking for any long-term relationship; hence, a $300 million above deal coming from Cubs seems doubtful. While Carlos is seeking a long-term deal like his competitor, Corey Seager did, worth $325 million.
Carlos Correa’s free agency:
Astros offer 5/$160M.
Tigers have 10/$275M rejected.
Cubs are in, but don’t offer 10 years.Everything still lines up for the Yankees to pounce once the lockout is over. https://t.co/Z6PJTzwqGK
— Doug Rush (@TheDougRush) December 22, 2021
If Cubs cannot give Correa his desired deal, New York Yankees surely can, being the richest MLB franchise. Notably, the Yankees have hardly spent anything before the lockout.
Can other teams still win the race?
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While there are reports and rumors around the signings, these are just speculations. Once the lockout is over, teams need to aggressively start approaching their priority free agents.
USA Today via Reuters
Oct 5, 2021; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; New York Yankees starting pitcher Gerrit Cole (45) walks to the dugout after being pulled against the Boston Red Sox during the third inning of the American League Wildcard game at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports
If Cubs or other teams cannot offer him a huge commitment, they can attract him with a short-term deal; however, with a high average annual salary. Interestingly, reports had claimed, Carlos rejected a deal by Tigers below $300 million before the lockout, hence this could be a way out for the teams.
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It will indeed be interesting to watch not only where Carlos will sign but also what kind of deal he will sign. Do you think Carlos Correa would receive his desired long-term deal from New York Yankees?
Read More: With Carlos Correa Gone, Stats Predict Next Major Star for Houston Astros in MLB 2022 Season
