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While some executives believe that a Josh Donaldson decision could come soon, it probably wouldn’t be the worst idea for him to just sit back and watch teams continue to battle it out for his services. While the Braves and the Nationals have been seen as the frontrunners to sign Donaldson, The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal reports that the Minnesota Twins should not be counted out of the race.
Per Rosenthal, Donaldson has four-year offers from both the Twins and Nationals and that the Dodgers and Braves remain in the mix but might be reluctant to go to four years. He also indicates that a $100 million guarantee for Donaldson might be possible and that the stiff competition may drive the price even higher.
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Longtime Braves starter Julio Teheran agreed to a one-year, $9 million deal with the Los Angeles Angels on Thursday. The Braves declined the $12 million option on Teheran’s contract for the 2020 season earlier this offseason making him a free agent. Teheran leaves with a complicated legacy as the one-time top prospect never fully reached ace status for the Braves but was a dependable option throughout his time in Atlanta.
Hot Stove News
Rosenthal also reports that a trade involving Nolan Arenado is no longer a crazy idea. The long list of teams seeking help at third base have created a possibility where the Rockies could get a significant return for Arenado who’s contract contains an opt-out clause following the 2021 season. The Rangers are showing interest and the Braves and Nationals could get involved as well depending on who loses out on Josh Donaldson.
The Milwaukee Brewers and free-agent first baseman Justin Smoak have an agreement on a one-year, $4 million contract which also includes a $5.5 million club option for the 2021 season.
The Kansas City Royals have a deal with former Philadelphia Phillies third baseman Maikel Franco. The deal is reportedly a one-year pact that is worth $2.95 million and also includes another $1.05 million in performance bonuses. The Royals have not yet made the signing official.
More MLB News
Shohei Ohtani completed his rehab from Tommy John surgery and has been cleared to return to Japan to rest before he begins building up his arm for 2020. Ohtani underwent Tommy John surgery in 2018 and spent the 2019 season as the Angels designated hitter. Now that he is fully recovered, he will return as a two-way player once again.
The MLBPA has filed a grievance against the New York Yankees on behalf of outfielder Jacoby Elsbury in an attempt to regain the remaining $26 million owed on his contract. The Yankees contend that Ellsbury violated the terms of his contract when he sought unauthorized medical treatment. Ellsbury was released back on November 20. The case will be heard by arbitrator Mark Irvings.