A long-awaited J.T. Realmuto trade may finally be nearing fruition, but there are definitely some issues to iron out.
According to Jon Morosi of MLB.com, the San Diego Padres, who are pursuing a Realmuto deal, are insisting on a window to negotiate a contract extension as a requirement before completing any trade.
Source: #Padres insisting on window to negotiate contract extension with J.T. Realmuto as a condition of possible trade with #Marlins, as discussions between teams continue. @MLBNetwork @MLB
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) January 26, 2019
Realmuto has two years of arbitration remaining and would become a free agent after the 2020 season. The Padres are apparently serious about ensuring it doesn’t get to that point if they acquire him.
According to Jon Heyman of Fancred, talks are said to be “gaining momentum,” with the Padres and Los Angeles Dodgers viewed as the frontrunners.
Realmuto talks are said to be gaining momentum, with the Dodgers and Padres believed most prominent in discussions at moment. LA has the need and the young players to trade (Verdugo, etc.) and is logical. Reds, Braves, Astros among others with interest.
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) January 25, 2019
The Padres have been lingering on the fringes of Realmuto talks for a while, but appear to have really stepped up their interest in recent days. It sounds like this trade saga could soon be resolved.
