Cleveland Indians: Is Carlos Santana’s Contract Extension On Its Way?
By Ryan Rosko
Perhaps the Cleveland Indians will be able to extend first baseman/designated hitter Carlos Santana‘s contract after all.
In recent weeks, the Cleveland Indians signed contract extensions with third baseman Jose Ramirez and catcher Roberto Perez. Next up should be shortstop Francisco Lindor for a contract extension.
Even after the offseason and recent agreements made, along with one day hopefully extending Lindor, it does not appear Cleveland will be done.
After years of going down the cheap road, the Dolans deserve some credit with the deals they have made. Once they complete that business with Lindor, even more props will be given.
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Speaking of soon to be extensions, in addition to Lindor, Carlos Santana’s future in Cleveland appears to be brighter. Following the acquisition of 1B/DH Edwin Encarnacion, uncertainty surrounding what Cleveland would do with Santana.
According to FanRag writer and MLB Network insider Jon Heyman, Cleveland is going to try to extend Santana this season.
"Word is, the Indians quietly will try to extend Carlos Santana, who is a year away from free agency, at some point. Kendrys Morales ($33 million, three years) and Mark Trumbo $37.5 million, three years) could be reasonable comps."
If all goes as planned, he will be a staple in their lineup for years to come. Would Cleveland be willing to meet in the middle of those deals at around $35 million?
I would hope so! Santana’s versatility could provide more generous offers. Still, winning on a championship contending team does not come around every day.
Besides, after being dealt by the Los Angeles Dodgers to the Tribe, Santana grew up in Cleveland’s organization and has been a key component of their success.
This past offseason, in addition to trading for pitcher Andrew Miller has certainly increased their payroll. With that in mind, a case can be made for the Indians to look elsewhere, but they would be wise to keep Santana.
"The Indians ran up their payroll beyond normal this winter following the World Series, but they do love Santana."
As exciting and important as it was to have Ramirez and Perez sign extensions, reaching extensions with both Santana and Lindor are even more crucial.
Next: Santana Will Soon Play In The OF
According to baseball-reference.com, through three games, Santana has a slash line of .417/.533/.833 with one home run and four RBI. Since Santana is set to be a free agent following the season, an agreement sooner rather than later would be great. Hopefully, at the latest we will find out news of a deal by the all-star break.