MLB Rumors: Matt Chapman Expected to Opt Out of Giants Contract, Become Free Agent

Matt Chapman is reportedly leaning towards free agency this offseason.

Per USA Today's Bob Nightengale, the San Francisco Giants third baseman is expected to opt out of his contract following the end of the season, which would make him a free agent, though it's likely he would remain with the Giants.

"Giants third baseman Matt Chapman is expected to opt out of his contract after the season, knowing that he can earn more on the open market than $17 million in 2025, $18 million in 2026, with a mutual $20 million option in 2027," Nightengale wrote. "Chapman is having his best full season since 2019 and wants to stay in San Francisco, with the Giants expected to talk to him about an extension."

Chapman has put together his best season since 2019, when he was named an All-Star while playing for the Oakland Athletics. He has 19 homers, 61 RBI and a .245 batting average, also picking up a career-high 12 stolen bases.

He recently hinted at his desire to remain with San Francisco but said he's "waiting on them."

"That's not really my focus right now; my focus is on trying to make the playoffs," Chapman said, per the Mercury News' Evan Webeck. "But the Giants, I love being here and they know that I want to be here. They know that I'm open to that. I'm kind of just waiting on them."

Chapman agreed to a three-year, $54 million contract with the Giants in March, but the deal gives him player options for 2025 and 2026 as well as a mutual option for $20 million in 2027.

Should Chapman hit free agency, he'd likely only do so to raise his value and get more guaranteed money than the $16 million guaranteed he got with his recent deal.

For now, he'll look to help the Giants in their quest to reach the postseason. San Francisco sits just four games back from a wild-card spot at 63-63 on the year, and a strong finish could the Giants reach the playoffs for the first time since 2021.