Morning Update - 2/18/2021
Fernando Tatis Jr. signs a FOURTEEN year extension worth $340 million.
Good morning.
It’s February 18th, 2021 and here’s everything that happened in the world of baseball from 5:00 PM EST yesterday to 9:00 AM EST today.
The Most Important Thing
Wow. Fernando Tatis Jr. appears to be a generational superstar, and now he’s going to be paid like one. 14 years, $340 million. The deal is the third largest contract in baseball history, behind only the deals signed by Mike Trout and Mookie Betts.
Everything Else
The Blue Jays are set to open the 2021 season playing their home games at their spring training site in Dunedin, Florida, reports Shi Davidi & Ben Nicholson. From the story: “For now, the shift to TD Ballpark covers homestands April 8-14 against the Los Angeles Angels and New York Yankees and April 27-May 2 versus the Washington Nationals and Atlanta.”
LHP Rich Hill’s deal with the Rays is official. One year, $2.5 million.
RHP Oliver Drake’s deal with the Rays is also now official. One year, $775,000 with an additional $325,000 in incentives. RHP Colin Poche, recovering from Tommy John surgery, will be placed on the 60 day IL.
Tim Tebow has announced his retirement from baseball.
Notes from Padres manager Jayce Tingler: On C Luis Campusano's legal situation, Tingler does not expect any limitations going forward; the team feels really good about where RHP Dinelson Lamet is right now.
The Dodgers hired Ron Roenicke as a special assistant to the GM.
Posts With Your Toast
AJ Cassavell says Fernando Tatis Jr. is in San Diego for the long haul.
Jesse Rogers writes Tony La Russa feels fortunate to manage after his DUI arrest. Vinnie Duber on how La Russa plans to win over the White Sox players and fans.
Scott Lauber says the Phillies are seeking a solution for Aaron Nola’s wretched Septembers.
Carlos Martinez is eyeing a starting spot for the Cardinals, writes Zachary Silver.
Blake Snell is excited to face the Dodgers and pitch deeper into games.
Hirokazu Sawamura turned to Koju Uehara for advice in Boston, says John Tomase.
Nick Nelson on how the Twins front office addressed past playoff weaknesses.
The Twins opt for variance with Matt Shoemaker, writes Ben Clemens.
Maria Guardado on Jake McGee’s potential to close games for the Giants.
Jim Margalus says Jerry Reinsdorf can’t keep White Sox’s stories straight.
Random Baseball Rewind
Foul Tips
The Braves plan to limit spring training attendance to 1,800 fans.
God bless and good day!