Introduction
Isiah Kiner-Falefa is a rising star in Major League Baseball (MLB). Over the past two seasons, the Texas Rangers third baseman has emerged as one of the brightest young players in the game. After a breakout 2019 campaign, there has been much speculation about whether Kiner-Falefa will become a free agent in 2021, when his current contract expires. In this article, we will take a comprehensive look at Kiner-Falefa’s free agency status and what it could mean for the Rangers and the rest of the league.
Background
Kiner-Falefa was originally selected by the Rangers in the fourth round of the 2014 MLB Draft. After spending four years in the minor leagues, Kiner-Falefa was called up to the majors in 2018. He immediately made an impact, hitting .269 with five home runs in his rookie season.
In 2019, Kiner-Falefa took his game to another level. He hit .285 with 11 home runs and was an All-Star. His defensive prowess was on full display as well, as he led all third basemen with 13 defensive runs saved (DRS). Kiner-Falefa was also one of the most valuable players in the league, finishing the season with a 4.7 WAR (Wins Above Replacement).
Kiner-Falefa’s success has continued into the 2020 season. He is hitting .285 with five home runs and is once again among the league leaders in DRS. He has been one of the Rangers’ most valuable players and is an important part of the team’s future.
Contract Status
Kiner-Falefa is currently in the first year of a four-year, $24 million contract extension he signed with the Rangers in 2019. The deal includes a club option for a fifth year, and the Rangers have until December 2021 to decide whether or not they will exercise it.
If the Rangers decline the option, Kiner-Falefa will become a free agent after the 2021 season. He will be eligible for salary arbitration in 2022, which could significantly increase his salary if he performs well.
Rangers’ Interest in Kiner-Falefa
The Rangers have made it clear that they are interested in keeping Kiner-Falefa in their long-term plans. They are reportedly prepared to offer him a multiyear extension if he becomes a free agent, which would ensure that he remains in Texas for the foreseeable future.
The Rangers could also use their club option to retain Kiner-Falefa for the 2022 season. This would give them more time to evaluate his performance and determine if he is worth a long-term commitment.
Other Teams Interested in Kiner-Falefa
If Kiner-Falefa does become a free agent, he is likely to draw interest from other teams as well. He is an intriguing option for teams looking for an up-and-coming third baseman with the potential to be an impact player. The Boston Red Sox, San Francisco Giants, and Los Angeles Angels are among the teams that could make a play for Kiner-Falefa.
Impact of Kiner-Falefa’s Free Agency
Kiner-Falefa’s free agency status could have a significant impact on the Rangers and other teams in the league. If the Rangers decide to let him go, they could receive a compensation pick in the 2022 MLB Draft. This would give them an additional asset to use in their rebuilding efforts.
Meanwhile, other teams would have the opportunity to add a young, talented player to their roster. Kiner-Falefa could be the missing piece for a team looking to make a playoff push. His presence could also have a ripple effect on the rest of the market, as teams may have to adjust their free agency plans based on his availability.
Conclusion
Isiah Kiner-Falefa is an exciting young player who is quickly making a name for himself in the majors. His free agency status will have a major impact on the league, as teams will be vying for his services if he hits the open market after the 2021 season. It remains to be seen what the Rangers will decide to do with their club option, but it is clear that Kiner-Falefa will be a hot commodity if he does become a free agent.