The Los Angeles Dodgers have two of the top free agents available in Max Scherzer and Corey Seager, and there’s been no shortage of reported interest thus far.
In Seager’s case, it’s believed he may sign prior to the current collective bargaining agreement (CBA) as a lockout would likely follow. Scherzer had been presumed by most to be among the free agents who may wait longer as his market should be strong even if it got to January or February.
However, indications now are Scherzer may also look to sign before the CBA expires this week.
The Dodgers are considered one of the favorites to sign Scherzer, who is believed to have interest in playing for a World Series contender. The New York Mets don’t quite fall into that category and thus aren’t confident in their ability to potentially sign Scherzer despite being interested, per Andy Martino of SportsNet New York:
Sources: The Mets have had conversations with Scott Boras and Max Scherzer, but not overly optimistic there. At moment they are in hard on Kevin Gausman, who might sign today or tomorrow.
— Andy Martino (@martinonyc) November 27, 2021
Even if they are facing an uphill battle, the Mets remain determined in their pursuit of Scherzer, according to Jon Heyman of MLB Network:
Mets full attention at moment is on Max Scherzer, who may make a decision tonight. While the incumbent Dodgers are perceived as the favorite, the Mets are determined and financially formidable. If Scherzer goes elsewhere, Mets are expected to pivot to Kevin Gausman.
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) November 29, 2021
According to Jon Morosi of MLB Network, the Mets have presented Scherzer with a contract offer that includes $40 million per season:
The #Mets have made Max Scherzer a multiyear offer at $40 million per season, source confirms. In some versions discussed, total value would be $120 million over 3 years. @martinonyc was first to report $40MM figure per annum. @MLBNetwork @MLB
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) November 29, 2021
Along with the Dodgers and Mets, the St. Louis Cardinals have been linked to Scherzer as well. On the surface they aren’t a World Series contender, but do represent a chance for the future Hall of Famer to join his hometown team.
Given the praise Scherzer has given the Dodgers, coupled with their need for starting pitching and being a championship-caliber club, it would stand to reason they eventually agree to terms.
Scherzer earned All-MLB honors
Although the 37-year-old fell short of winning a fourth career Cy Young Award, Scherzer was among the starting pitchers named to All-MLB First Team.
Scherzer finished the year a combined 15-4 with a 2.46 ERA, 0.86 WHIP, 11.84 strikeouts per nine innings and .185 opponents’ batting average this season. He led the Majors in WHIP and batting average against, and was second in the NL in ERA and strikeouts per nine.
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