Mookie Betts, Red Sox Reportedly Explored Long-Term Contract During Offseason

The Boston Red Sox and Mookie Betts reportedly engaged in discussions about a potential long-term contract extension last offseason, but the outfielder opted against the idea.

Jon Heyman of FanRag Sports reported Thursday that Betts is "comfortable going year to year" at this stage of his career.

The 24-year-old right fielder posted a .318/.363/.534 triple-slash line with 31 home runs and 26 stolen bases during the 2016 campaign. He earned his first All-Star Game appearance along with winning Silver Slugger and Gold Glove awards at season's end.

Boston renewed his contract for 2017 at $950,000, which Jen McCaffrey of MassLive.com noted Betts and his representation thought was too low, despite having no leverage. But the superstar made it clear he wasn't going to dwell on the situation.

"It's one of those things where you kind of hope for the best," Betts said. "Like I said, it's a business side and there's no animosity, there's nothing going on, they didn't let my hopes down or anything. Now we're just focused on baseball and we'll go from there."

He'll be arbitration eligible for the first time next offseason. He can continue to sign one-year contracts for the three years he carries that distinction before possibly becoming a free agent after the 2020 season, barring a long-term agreement.

Washington Nationals outfielder Bryce Harper is scheduled to hit the open market following next season, which could help raise the bar for Betts' asking price.

Meanwhile, the Tennessee native has continued to put up solid numbers for the Red Sox during the first quarter of this season. He's accumulated a .360 on-base percentage with 11 homers and 11 steals through 62 games as Boston tries to keep pace with the rival New York Yankees in the AL East.