Yadier Molina signed an extension just prior to Opening Day – three years at $60 million – that probably assures he spends the rest of his career as a Cardinal.
The $20 million annual value – the new high for a catcher – also offers a template for what Jonathan Lucroy likely will seek in the coming offseason as a free agent. Lucroy will be, by far, the best free-agent catcher available at a time when at least three NL East teams – the Mets, Braves and Nationals – could be looking in that area, not to mention others (remember the Mets tried to obtain Lucroy at the 2016 trade deadline).
In fact, Lucroy will be the best two-way, free-agent catcher available since the Yankees signed Brian McCann (five years, $85 million) after the 2013 season and the Blue Jays inked Russell Martin (five years, $82 million) following the 2014 campaign. Since Lucroy will be a similar age (31) to where McCann and Martin were for their free agencies, then he likely will seek no fewer than five years and no less than $20 million annually so he can set a new average standard for a catcher.
That the Rangers were unwilling to ante up earlier when they might have gotten Lucroy (whom they did obtain at last year’s trade deadline) at McCann/Martin dollars suggests they are more focused on using their available funds to retain Yu Darvish, who also can be free after the season. I have been told that Texas is worried about the aging curve with catchers.
“Both situations [with Darvish and Lucroy] are where we have good relationships with the players and agents,” Texas GM Jon Daniels said by phone. “The lines of communications are open. We have not closed any doors on anything, but right now we are focused on the 2017 season.”
In a text message, Lucroy’s agent, Ryan Gleichowski, said: “At this point, we are not going to comment on Jonathan’s contract situation. We are looking forward to him having another great year and Jonathan is excited about free agency, but right now he wants to stay focused on helping the Rangers win a championship.”