The Baltimore Orioles had a disappointing postseason and could be losing a key player in free agency as well. Anthony Santander is a free agent and could be in line for a big payday.
While making predictions for players who rejected the qualifying offer, Bleacher Report's Kerry Miller predicted that Anthony Santander would sign with the Kansas City Royals in free agency.
"Kansas City makes a lot of sense and may have already made it clear to Santander that he is its No. 1 priority," wrote Miller. "That could pay dividends for the Royals, whose entire OF/DH situation this past season was astoundingly bad for an 86-win playoff team."
Santander was one of four players to hit 40-plus home runs in 2024. The switch hitter is in line to get paid. Miller predicts that the Royals will sign him to a five-year, $90 million deal in free agency. He had hit 110 home runs in 545 games before last season.
"Santander definitely upped the ante in 2024, though, and he might sniff a nine-figure deal after that fantastic walk year, similar to Nick Castellanos getting a five-year, $100 million contract three years ago," wrote Miller.
Losing Santander would be a big blow for the Orioles offense. However, if they prioritize keeping Corbin Burnes or want to bring in an outside superstar, they may not be able to afford Santander.
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