(670 The Score) With an unprecedented 60-game season awaiting and MLB staring at a new economic reality amid the coronavirus pandemic, Cubs shortstop Javier Baez's mind isn't currently on contract extension talks.
"Things are really difficult with all that is going on right now," Baez said. "We have really good communication and a relationship between me and the owners and my agent."
At the Cubs Convention in January and again in spring training in Arizona, Baez hinted that his representation and the Cubs were holding earnest extension talks that featured progress. He's set to become a free agent after the 2021 season, which is the same timeline for third baseman Kris Bryant, first baseman Anthony Rizzo and outfielder Kyle Schwarber to hit the open market.
Based off his positive, open rhetoric about the situation in public comments and considering he plays such a premium position, Baez appears to be the most likely of the aforementioned Cubs to sign an extension with the club.
"When this problem passes, we are going to talk," Baez said. "We are obviously staying in touch. We will see what happens from here during the season."
Baez, 27, has been an All-Star each of the past two seasons. He hit .281 with 29 homers, 85 RBIs and an .847 OPS in 135 games in 2019. Baez was the National League MVP runner-up in his monster 2018 season.
The MLB collective bargaining agreement is set to expire in December 2021. Owners have seen their usual revenue streams dwindle amid the pandemic, so what will the effect be for free agents down the line?
"Obviously, everyone wants to get paid," Baez said. "We have to wait for the right time. In time, we will see what is right for each other. I am not in a rush. Obviously, we are about getting back on the field and playing regular games. Winning this season is what we are preparing for. What is happening right now not only has changed in 2020, but it is going to change the next two years as well."
Bruce Levine covers the Cubs and White Sox for 670 The Score. Follow him on Twitter @MLBBruceLevine.
