Matt Wieters is still a free agent.
It’s February 16th, pitchers and catchers reported a few days ago and one of the top catchers in the game is still a free agent.
That may not be the case for very much longer as the Tampa Bay Rays have reportedly sent a contract offer to Wieters. A few days ago, it was reported they were talks with both Wieters and Tommy Hunter (who is actually on the cusp of signing a minor league deal with the Rays)
Wieters list of suitors has dried up throughout the off-season and now only a couple of teams have been linked to the catcher, with the Rays of course being one of them. Other teams that have expressed interest include the Washington Nationals, Milwaukee Brewers, and Arizona Diamondbacks.
Marc Topkin speculates the guaranteed amount won’t be too much but is likely laden with incentives that make the contract more attractive and could push north of $10M.
Matt Wieters may not be the player he once was, but he still a solid major league bat and provides it a premium position behind the plate. The Rays currently have a competition for their opening day catchers as they have Luke Maile, Curt Casali, Jesus Sucre, and Michael McKenry all in camp capable of winning the job until Wilson Ramos returns a short while into the season.
With every passing day, is another day missed on which Wieters could be learning the pitching staff and his value decreases so he needs to make mind up quickly.