Texas Rangers president of baseball operations Chris Young flatly dismissed any notion that his team is looking to trade its star player, Corey Seagerduring the winter market.
Seager’s name has been the subject of intense transfer rumors in recent weeks. Teams in search of an impact offensive piece, such as the Boston Red Sox, have been contacting Texas management to ask about the shortstop, recognized as the World Series Most Valuable Player on two occasions, including the Rangers’ championship victory in 2023.
“Not for sale”
Young’s message was emphatic and direct. In statements offered to MLB Network Radio of SiriusXM on Sunday, the executive sought to put an end to the speculation.
“We are not offering Corey Seager. I want to make that very clear. He is not for sale.”
Young recalled that the Rangers secured the star shortstop to a 10-year, $325 million contract in 2022, a deal that remains the center of the team’s strategy.
The Semien Connection
The president of operations acknowledged receiving multiple calls from rival executives regarding Seager, but believes these inquiries could be related to the franchise’s recent move.
Earlier this offseason, the Rangers surprised by trading second baseman Marcus Semien to the New York Mets, a move that, to some observers, hinted at a possible strategy by the 2023 champions to lighten payroll.
However, Young insisted that Seager’s case is completely different and is not part of any roster restructuring.
“Corey Seager is a great player and teams are looking for great players,” Young said. “What I love is that Corey Seager is a great Texas Rangers player. I understand teams reaching out. We also call other teams to reach out to great players. So teams are doing their job, I understand.”
The undisputed value of Seager
Seager has left six years and $186 million in your contract. Additionally, his deal includes limited transfer protection, although the number of teams the player can block has not been detailed.
Since joining the Rangers, the 31-year-old shortstop has proven to be the team’s offensive engine, hitting .278/.355/.517, with 117 home runs and 303 RBIs. His production has led to him being selected to the All-Star Game three times, solidifying his position as an irreplaceable piece in the Texas Rangers’ long-term plans.
