_TRADE DEADLINE SHOCKER: LaMonte Wade Jr. Turns Down Eye-Watering $98.76 Million Offer from San Francisco Giants_
In a stunning move that has sent shockwaves throughout the baseball world, LaMonte Wade Jr. has rejected a whopping $98.76 million contract extension offer from the San Francisco Giants, sources close to the situation have revealed. The news comes just hours before the MLB trade deadline, leaving the Giants scrambling to find a new trade partner or risk losing their star outfielder to free agency.
Wade Jr., 29, has been a key contributor to the Giants’ lineup this season, batting .280 with 15 home runs and 50 RBIs. His impressive performance had made him a prime target for a long-term extension, but it appears the Giants’ offer fell short of Wade’s expectations.
According to sources, Wade Jr.’s camp was seeking a deal in excess of $120 million over five years, citing comparable contracts signed by similar players in recent years. The Giants’ offer, while substantial, was deemed insufficient, leading Wade Jr. to explore other options.
“We’re disappointed but not surprised,” said a Giants front office executive, speaking on condition of anonymity. “LaMonte has been a vital part of our team, and we wanted to keep him. However, we can’t justify going beyond our budget constraints. We’ll have to explore trade options now.”
The Giants’ failed attempt to extend Wade Jr. has significant implications for the team’s future. With the trade deadline looming, they face an uphill battle to find a suitable trade partner willing to meet their asking price. Rival teams are likely to be hesitant to part with top prospects or established players for a rental outfielder, even one as talented as Wade Jr.
Meanwhile, Wade Jr.’s decision to test the free agent market has sparked interest from several contending teams. The New York Yankees, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Houston Astros are among those rumored to be interested in signing the outfielder.
Wade Jr.’s agent, Scott Boras, released a statement saying, “LaMonte is excited to explore his options and find the best fit for his career. We’re confident he’ll find a team willing to meet his value.”
As the trade deadline approaches, the baseball world waits with bated breath to see where LaMonte Wade Jr. will end up. One thing is certain – the Giants’ failure to extend their star outfielder has set off a chain reaction that will have far-reaching consequences for the team and the league.
