Pitcher Sonny Gray is now a free agent after receiving a $10 million buyout from his previous team. Gray, who is entering his age-37 season, led MLB with 18 wins in the past season and posted a 2.72 ERA. He has consistently pitched over 160 innings and made at least 28 starts in each of the last four seasons.
In other player news, shortstop Bo Bichette has exercised his player option for the 2027 season, securing a $42 million salary with the New York Mets. This decision keeps Bichette with the Mets as part of a contract agreed upon in January, which stipulated a $126 million, three-year deal including a $40 million signing bonus. Bichette had previously shifted to third base for the Mets after playing shortstop in Toronto. He hit .260 with 18 home runs and 78 RBIs for the Mets last season.
The Atlanta Braves have also exercised contract options for two key players. Outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr.'s $17 million option for the upcoming season was picked up. Acuña, the 2023 NL MVP, is under an eight-year, $100 million contract that includes an option for 2028. Additionally, the Braves exercised a $7 million option on second baseman Ozzie Albies. Albies is on a seven-year, $35 million contract that includes options for 2026 and 2027.
These decisions come as the MLB offseason heats up, with other notable players like Tarik Skubal and Teruaki Sato expected to command significant contracts in free agency.