Blake Snell opts out of Giants deal, setting up likely free agent bidding war

Blake Snell opts out of Giants deal, setting up likely free agent bidding war

This isn’t much of a surprise, but Blake Snell is becoming a free agent again.

The lefty starter and two-time Cy Young winner is opting out of his contract and entering free agency following a season with the San Francisco Giants, according to The Athletic.

Snell was coming off his second Cy Young Award last offseason when he signed a two-year deal with a player option for 2025, which he has now declined.

Snell didn’t sign with San Francisco until the spring, lingering in free agency for months until agreeing to a deal.


Blake Snell is opting for free agency again after just signing to a deal this past spring.Blake Snell is opting for free agency again after just signing to a deal this past spring. Getty Images

The contract was worth $62 million over two seasons but, uniquely, made Snell $23 million this past season.

Of course, opting out would mean Snell, who turns 32 in December, is likely seeking a longer-term commitment than a simple one-year pact, which could potentially bring him well into his mid-30s if this were the case.

The soon-to-be 10-year MLB veteran spent 2021-23 with the Padres, following five big-league years with the Rays after they drafted him 52nd overall in 2011.

He won the 2018 American League Cy Young before winning the award in the National League in 2023.

Snell made 20 starts for the Giants last season, recording a 3.12 ERA and striking out 145 hitters in 104 innings pitched.

He made extra magic on Aug. 2 when he tossed a no-hitter on the road against the Reds.


Blake Snell spent his 2024 season with the San Francisco Giants.Blake Snell spent his 2024 season with the San Francisco Giants. USA TODAY Sports via Reuters Con

Snell, who has a career 3.19 ERA, has had a 3.38 ERA or lower in each of the last three seasons.

MLB free agency officially begins on November 4.