On March 19, 2022, outfielder/designated hitter Jorge Soler signed a three-year, $36 million deal with the Miami Marlins to provide some offensive thump to a mediocre lineup.
He had a brilliant postseason with the Atlanta Braves in 2021, and was ready to cash in.
The pact, however, contained an opt-out clause after the second season, 2023.
This week, Soler decided to activate that clause and is now free to sign with any team of his liking.
“Marlins have been informed OF/DH Jorge Soler will exercise his opt-out of the final year of his 3 year deal with the club per sources. Soler hit 36 Home Runs in 2023 for Miami and is a Silver Slugger Finalist,” Marlins insider Craig Mish tweeted.
Marlins have been informed OF/DH Jorge Soler will exercise his opt-out of the final year of his 3 year deal with the club per sources. Soler hit 36 Home Runs in 2023 for Miami and is a Silver Slugger Finalist.
— Craig Mish (@CraigMish) November 2, 2023
Having hit 36 home runs while calling the spacious loanDepot Park home and posting a .853 OPS in 2023, he is in a prime position to secure a lucrative long-term deal.
He will turn 32 in February, so should still have a few more productive years remaining.
There is a chance Soler re-signs with the Marlins, but it remains to be seen if the usually stingy team is willing to give him the kind of contract he wants.
There should be numerous organizations looking for a powerful, prolific outfielder for the middle of the lineup, so there should be a market for Soler.
With a career .797 OPS and 170 home runs, the right-hander has shown he belongs, even if consistency is not his calling card.
Will the Marlins be able to retain their noted slugger?
It’s not going to be easy and they will have competition for his signature.
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