MLB’s Soft Collusion

There are several reasons why top free agents are still unsigned. Some reaons are more legitimate than others.

At the beginning of spring training this year, four top free agents, outfielder-first baseman Cody Bellinger, third baseman Matt Chapman and pitchers Jordan Montgomery and Blake Snell were unsigned. A week ago Bellinger signed a a contract to remain with the Cubs. The three-year $80 million contract was less than Bellinger had sought on the open market. Chapman also signed a contract for less that he had initially hoped or that many thought he would get, agreeing to a three year $54 million deal with the Giants yesterday. Snell, the reigning National League Cy Young Award winner, has not even had many offers. Montgomery is a solid player who could help any team that needs a reliable left-handed starting pitcher.