Cleveland's new manager, Stephen Vogt, has voiced his unease regarding the sluggish pace of this year's free agent market in Major League Baseball. Despite the rising temperatures in spring training camps in Arizona and Florida, several high-profile free agents remain unsigned, prompting Vogt to urge for a quick resolution to the situation.
Vogt emphasized the importance of having the best players on the field for the game to thrive and expressed his hope for the unsigned players to find teams soon. Notable players still seeking contracts include Cy Young Award winner Blake Snell, former MVP Cody Bellinger, and All-Stars J.D. Martinez and Tim Anderson.
While Vogt does not make front-office decisions, the lack of urgency among many general managers was evident during the recent Cactus League media day. Some GMs cited past instances of late signings and noted that the current market fluctuations are not unprecedented.
The free-agent market saw early activity in December, with teams like the Los Angeles Dodgers and Arizona Diamondbacks making significant signings. However, other traditionally big-spending teams such as the Los Angeles Angels, San Diego Padres, and Boston Red Sox have been more cautious this offseason.
Despite the Padres' high payroll last season, they have adopted a cost-cutting approach and are focusing on their existing talent, including stars like Fernando Tatis Jr. and Manny Machado. General managers emphasized the uniqueness of each offseason and the importance of building teams based on current resources.
Vogt, drawing from his own experience of late signings during his playing career, empathized with the uncertainty faced by unsigned players. He highlighted the anxiety and anticipation that come with waiting for a contract offer, acknowledging the mental toll it can take on players.
As the baseball community awaits further developments in the free agent market, Vogt's concerns reflect a broader sentiment within the league regarding the delayed signings of top-tier players.
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