White Sox, Todd Frazier Have Not Discussed an Extension
By Matt Manetti
Todd Frazier tells Scott Merkin the White Sox have not approached him about a possible contract extension. The third baseman will be a free agent after this season.
The Chicago White Sox have not discussed an extension with Todd Frazier. Frazier said this in an interview with Scott Merkin. The third baseman had 40 home runs and 98 RBIs but only hit .225 last season. His home run and RBI totals were career highs for the 31-year-old.
Frazier has been the talk of trade rumors throughout this past offseason. With the team in a rebuild, he may not profile as the type of player this team is looking for in the future. Rick Hahn previously mentioned the team was open for business and was willing to trade away almost anyone. That could not have been more true after he traded away Chris Sale and Adam Eaton, two of the organization’s best players.
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Despite all this, Frazier has been steadfast in saying he would welcome an extension to keep him in Chicago. Seems odd for someone who has aspiration of playing for a championship. Right now, this team is not expected to contend. Their general manager even said he doesn’t expect this team to compete in 2017.
Still, Frazier has shown a willingness to stay with this organization, despite those circumstances. He is probably too good a player to be on a team that struggles like the White Sox, but he is an important member of the club. He was their best offensive threat last season and gave Jose Abreu some protection in the lineup. That should most likely translate to this season.
It’s not out of the question to think the White Sox will at some point entertain the notion of bringing Frazier back. Right now is a little soon to make that decision. Other teams will surely be interested in his services, it’s just a matter of what type of value they offer. He is definitely a great player and could provide a spark to any lineup. However, he’s also 31. He’s coming to the end of his career and may not have many years left. Still, he could provide some value for a team needing a veteran bat for a deep playoff run.
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It’s tough to see a scenario where a long-term deal with the White Sox makes sense but stranger things have happened. Maybe this team clicks sooner than we expect and he’s one of the veteran leaders. Or this team surprises everyone and has a breakout season in 2017. All of sudden he becomes an asset because, again, they need some veteran leadership. Bottom line, Frazier is a great player and would be a welcomed asset wherever he is.