Chicago Cubs: What a Javier Baez reunion might look like this offseason

Chicago Cubs: A team-friendly deal is looking more and more likely

Here’s the thing. With Baez off to a rough start, his chances of signing a huge deal with New York while there will be so many other All-Star-caliber shortstops available this winter are probably low. Cohen is the richest owner in baseball and after the Francisco Lindor deal, you saw he wasn’t afraid to show it either.

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Before the trade deadline, Baez wanted roughly $200 million to stay in a Cubs uniform. As I have stated in the past, if he were playing at peak 2018-2019 level, I am all for it.

However, given the numbers in 2020 and 2021, I am not so keen in such a high AAV. I’m doubtful that $200 million would be spread over a 10-year deal. It would most likely be closer to eight years, which works out to $25,000,000 a year.

I think we can all agree that that’s a little much if you’re not putting high-caliber numbers. No offense, we love El Mago, but he will need to come down on his price a little to return home.

I do hope the Cubs find a way to make it work. Maybe we can get a contract clause stating that he owes everybody in the stands an Italian beef sandwich every time he strikes out two or more times in a game.

Either way, hopefully Baez doesn’t get extended in New York so we have an opportunity to resign him. He will forever be a fan favorite. When Baez is on his game he really is one of the most exciting players in baseball. Nothing gets the Wrigley crowd roaring like a clutch Javier Baez moment. If the Cubs get the chance, bring him home.