Before the start of the season, shortstop Carlos Correa signed a three-year, $105.3 million deal to play for the Minnesota Twins.
It was a shocking development because the Twins weren’t on the list of teams expected to pursue him.
However, he did not like any of the long-term deals that were offered to him and ended up accepting the Twins’ proposal because it had opt-out clauses after the first two years.
Well, he announced today that he is using his opt-out clause to test free agency again.
He is banking on MLB teams returning to normal after a couple of years filled with uncertainty: first with COVID-19, and then with the lockout.
Additionally, with the increasing luxury tax threshold, he could have a shot at a larger deal now that he is a free agent again at a prime age (28).
Let The Speculation Begin
Of course, the speculation about his next destination has already started.
Future Yankee, Carlos Correa
— Mike (deGrom2BOS) (@barnesplsclose) October 13, 2022
While there is a chance he ends up with the New York Yankees, a deal with them is unlikely given that they gave Oswald Peraza, Oswaldo Cabrera, and Anthony Volpe.
It could be possible if he was open to playing third base.
This one could be more likely:
Carlos Correa you are an ANGEL!!! https://t.co/aLnZIzVThc
— Soto ⚾️ (@SotoP_23) October 13, 2022
Or this one, if the Boston Red Sox can’t re-sign Xander Bogaerts:
Carlos Correa next Red Sox shortstop, Thanks #45
— doj1530 (@dabill6077) October 13, 2022
Correa finished the season with a 4.4 Wins Above Replacement (WAR) output, hitting .291/.366/.467 with 22 home runs and excellent defense at shortstop.
The Twins are one of the leading candidates to re-sign him because they have the need and the resources to bring him back.
Now, however, Correa will explore each and every option, and teams may be more willing to extend him a lucrative long-term contract now.
NEXT: Carlos Correa Makes Up His Mind On His Contract