MLB Rumors: Anthony Santander, Jack Flaherty Open to Short-Term, High AAV Contracts

Pete Alonso's reported willingness to accept a short-term deal could shape the rest of the 2025 free agent market.

Free agent pitcher Jack Flaherty and outfielder Anthony Santander "are open to considering short-term deals with high average annual values, according to league sources briefed on their discussions," The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal and Will Sammon reported.

As first reported by MLB Network's Jim Duquette and confirmed by Sammon, Alonso has indicated to the New York Mets that he is willing to stay with the team on a "three-year deal with opt-outs."

Including opt-outs in the deal opens the possibility that Alonso could potentially re-negotiate for a larger deal before the contract is up.

Blake Snell took a similar path last season, when he signed a two-year deal including an opt-out clause with the San Francisco Giants ahead of the 2024 season. Snell then opted out in order to snag a lucrative five-year deal with the reigning World Series champions in Los Angeles.

For Flaherty, a contract with an opt-out after the 2025 season could allow him to demonstrate some consistency and potentially earn more money on his next deal. He had a strong regular season with the Detroit Tigers and Dodgers before he struggled in the postseason.

However, Flaherty has never received a qualifying offer. He could receive one if he opts out of his next deal, which could limit his free agent appeal ahead of the 2026 season, as noted by Rosenthal and Sammon.

Santander meanwhile already received a qualifying offer from the Baltimore Orioles this offseason, making him ineligible for the qualification next season.

Being tied to draft pick compensation might be part of the reason Santander is still available as a free agent despite recording a career-high 44 home runs and 102 RBI. Should he decide to sign a short-term deal this winter, he could look his value in 2025 after his batting average dropped to .235 during his final campaign with the Orioles.