Blake Snell Rumors: MLB Execs Believe Star Will Sign Contract With Angels or Giants

After spending the last three seasons with the San Diego Padres, free-agent pitcher Blake Snell is reportedly believed to be staying on the West Coast.

According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, MLB team executives "widely believe" that the two-time Cy Young winner "will ultimately sign with the Los Angeles Angels or possibly the San Francisco Giants."

Nightengale noted that the Philadelphia Phillies also "have interest" in Snell, but "only on a one-year or short-term contract."

Earlier this offseason, Mark Feinsand of MLB.com reported that many believed Snell was "seeking a deal worth more than $200 million after winning his second Cy Young Award." However, with Opening Day quickly approaching on March 28, receiving a contract worth that amount appears increasingly less likely.

Signing a short-term deal could be the best possible avenue for Snell at this point. Fellow Scott Boras clients Cody Bellinger and Matt Chapman recently signed three-year deals that include opt-outs after the first year with the Chicago Cubs and Giants, respectively, so Snell could be in line for a similar contract.

It should be noted that Snell turned down a qualifying offer from the Padres, so any team that signs him will owe San Diego at least one draft pick. Because of this, teams could be less likely to offer Snell a deal where he opts out after just one year.

Snell was named the NL Cy Young Award winner after going 14-9 with a 2.25 ERA and 234 strikeouts in 2023. Any team that lands him would be getting an ace who can lead the starting rotation, so he likely won't remain unsigned for much longer.