Red Sox Get Extension Offer Rejected By Yet Another Of Their All-Stars

We learned earlier today that the Boston Red Sox's efforts to sign All-Star third baseman Rafael Devers to an extension have been rebuffed thus far, now we get a report that the All-Star who plays right next to him has also turned down their contract extension offer.

Xander Bogaerts said the #Redsox did make an offer, and he rejected it. He doesn’t want to be a distraction to his teammates during the season halting negotiations
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) April 7, 2022

Shortstop Xander Bogaerts, who can become a free agent after this season, said the Red Sox did make him an offer, according to MLB Insider Bob Nightengale, but he "doesn't want to be a distraction to his teammates during the season", so he put the kibosh on negotiations.

Xander Bogaerts on contract offer: ‘It just didn’t work out. It’s behind us now.’
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) April 7, 2022

At the end of the 2022 season, Bogaerts has an opt-out of his 6-year, $120M contract signed in 2019. All indications are that he will test the free agent market, where his value is likely higher than the $20M AAV he currently earns.

The fact that the Red Sox brought in Gold Glove shortstop Trevor Story on a huge free agent deal this spring gives them some insurance, should they lose Bogaerts. Story, in the meantime, is playing 2nd base for the 2022 season.

The Devers negotiations have also not been fruitful, and according to MLB Insider Jon Morosi it's "almost certain" that Friday's Opening Day deadline will pass without a deal.

Photo Credit: Thomas Shea-USA TODAY Sports