Atlanta Braves news: the complexities of a Freddie Freeman contract extension
4. So how much is Freeman worth? And for how long?
Given the player, his position, his age (31… will turn 32 in September), and his abilities, Freeman appears to be one that could continue to hit at a high level for several more years.
Here are some recent “comps” to consider:
Eric Hosmer (Padres, 1B). 8 years, $144 million from Padres through 2025.
- Contract issued prior to 2018 season; $18mm AAV
- Current age roughly same as Freeman
- Contract was widely considered to be an overpay at the time.
- Production: about half that of Frreeman
Paul Goldschmidt (Cardinals, 1B). 5 years/$130m (prior to 2020 season).
- Generally considered fair, $26mm AAV
- Includes bonuses of up to $2 million per year for MVP/AS/GG
- Age was equivalent then to Freemans age now
- Production: dropped off somewhat since joining St. Louis, but not significantly so (unless 2021 represents a new trend)
Christian Yelich (Brewers, OF). 9 years, $215 million + option
- $23.89mm AAV
- Currently 29½ years old
- Contract in effect in 2020.
- Recent league MVP, but comp is not strong here.
Anthony Rendon (Angels, 3B). 7 years, $245 million.
- $35mm AAV. Not a strong comp, given positions involved.
- Currently 30 years old; 31 in ealy June.
- Contract took effect in 2020.
- Total prior WAR comparable to Freeman’s; strong MVP vote ranks.
Given these, Goldschmidt is likely the closest/best comp involved. First baseman also tend to age better than players at the “skill” positions (a phrasing that tends to denigrate 1B, but that’s truly not intended).
Over their careers, Goldschmidt and Freeman look like this:
- OPS+ 141 (Goldy); 138 (Freeman)
- Homers: 252 / 247
- Average: .292 / .294
- MVP: 2nd twice / Winner once
- Gold gloves: 3 / 1
- Silver slugger: 4 / 2
- All-Star: 6 / 4
- Years in league: 11 / 12
- Games: 1335 / 1431
So let’s take all of this and see if we can roll up a contract proposal that makes sense for both sides…