Well, the good news is that the White Sox are still considered finalists to sign free agent starter Zack Wheeler. However, while they seemed to be the favorite for the right-handed pitcher in the last few weeks a new team is making a late push to sign Wheeler.
A team that isn’t shy about spending. The Phillies.
ESPN’s Buster Olney was the first to report about Philadelphia’s late entry into the Wheeler sweepstakes. Although the White Sox are still in the mix, the Phillies and Reds have emerged as the top bidders for Wheeler.
Hey, at least it seems like the Twins are no longer involved? Yay?
Ken Rosenthal also reported on Tuesday that one team has already offered Wheeler a $100 million contract. Wheeler, 29, is now expected to receive at least a five-year deal worth $100 million or more. Will a team win the bidding by going to six years?
It also appears as though Wheeler will sign soon, meaning the third best starting pitcher might actually set the free agent market for every other starter.
Rick Hahn started off hot this offseason, but now he’s in a bidding war with several teams. Will he close the deal or let another team swoop in at the last minute again?
UPDATE
The Rangers were still being brought up as late as Tuesday being in on Wheeler, but the free agent has informed them that they’re out.
Clock is ticking, Rick!
