What has been a quiet and slow offseason thus far could make a major turn in the next couple of days, as George Springer - one of the best free agents in Major League Baseball right now - could join a new team.
The outfielder declined the $18.9 million qualifying offer the Houston Astros made him a couple of months ago and he's one of the most clutch and proven players in the world, meaning he's looking for a way more lucrative deal.
That could be tricky right now given the context of the pandemic and how most teams are wary of spending a lot of money. Then again, he's still got a couple of suitors lining up to offer him a big paycheck.
Blue Jays, Mets Lead The Race For George Springer
According to a report by Jon Morosi of MLB.com, the Toronto Blue Jays and New York Mets are currently leading the race for Springer's services and he could make a decision as soon as this week:
"George Springer’s free agent decision could come this week, multiple industry sources believe. The #BlueJays and #Mets are the two frontrunners as of today," Morosi tweeted.
Apparently, the Blue Jays and Mets are the only two ball clubs that would be willing to make a big investment right now, and with J.T. Realmuto, DJ LeMahieu, and Trevor Bauer reportedly off the table, Springer could be their most desired asset in the offseason.
Then again, MLB.com reports that the Blue Jays could have a slight advantage in Springers' sweepstakes, as the New York Mets don't want to get over the competitive balance tax (CBT), which is complicated after already landing Carlos Carrasco and Francisco Lindor.
The Blue Jays have struck out on most of their offseason targets right now and they'd have to part ways with a draft pick to sign Springer, but the reports state that they're willing to offer him 9 figures if that's what it takes to take him up north.
