Carlos Correa, at the age of 27, signed a three-year contract with optional years (at his discretion) in Minnesota. It was screaming “I want a long-term contract next year, but I protect myself in case of injury or bad performances”, all that.
And since he had a good season and stayed healthy, the inevitable was confirmed by the principal concerned: after the World Series, he will become a free agent.
Last winter, the work stoppage, the quality of the other shortstop players on the market, the qualifying offer attached to his candidacy and the Astros scandal slowed down some clubs. He had then taken a transition contract and here he is, with Scott Boras, free as air again.
To see him use his opt out this year is absolutely no surprise.
Xander Bogaerts is in the same situation as him and he should also be on the market. Trea Turner and Dansby Swanson, who currently lead the playoffs, will be the other headliners.
That said, it is very important to qualify this: he is open to staying with the Twins… but on the basis of a long-term contract and at the right price.
He loved the city (and his wife too), he found his place in the organization and the fact that the club missed the playoffs doesn’t seem to be holding him back too much right now.
I expect the Cubs, Giants, Braves (if they escape Swanson) and Orioles to be in the derby for his services. To be continued.
