Rumor: It'll Take $200 Million For Cubs To Keep Javy Baez

The Chicago Cubs are contemplating their future, with a number of big-names from their World Series glory days heading into free agency, and the team clearly being a seller at this year's trade deadline. But does their future include re-signing shortstop Javy Baez for more than $200 million dollars? That's what MLB insider Jon Heyman thinks it'll take.

.@JonHeyman: #Cubs need to get to $200 million-plus if they want to extend Javier Baez now https://t.co/Wo33Sn9vkN via @mullyhaugh pic.twitter.com/KyspQSnvlR
— 670 The Score (@670TheScore) July 19, 2021

Heyman told Chicago's 670 The Score that if the Cubs want to re-up with Baez on an extension, it will take a very large nine-figure number. "“We can start it with a 2 – we shall see,” Heyman said. “I’ve heard speculation that all the free-agent shortstops will get 200 (million) something. We’ll see.

Heyman went on to say that Trevor Story and Corey Seager will be shooting for deals in the $300 million dollar range. "But I would think Baez would be $200 million-plus. I don’t think they’re there yet. But if they get there, maybe they could have a deal (soon).”

We recently reported that the Cubs would like to explore re-signing both Baez and 1B Anthony Rizzo before they hit the free-agent market. But a long-term contract for those kind of numbers just may put the kibosh on the those plans.

Baez has had an up-and-down season, though he's turned it up considerably in the past two weeks, hitting .321 with a .998 OPS and 13 RBI in the last 15 games. Overall, however, Baez sits at just. .244 with a .288 OBP.

Some tough decisions ahead on the North Side of Chicago.

Photo Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports