Dodgers Secure Blake Snell with Unique Contract Detail
The Los Angeles Dodgers have solidified their rotation, landing southpaw Blake Snell on a hefty five-year deal. While the core details were revealed last week, new information is emerging about the contract’s intricacies.
The $182 million agreement boasts a $52 million signing bonus and annual salaries of $26 million. However, a closer look reveals $13.2 million deferred annually for a total deferral of $66 million, slightly higher than initially reported.
“"The MLBPA calculates the net present value of the deal at $150.336MM," tweeted Bob Nightengale of USA Today.
Adding another layer of complexity is a conditional club option for 2030. This option kicks in only if Snell hasn’t been traded and suffers a specific injury that lands him on the Injured List for at least 90 consecutive days. The injury category is believed to relate to his pitching elbow, possibly involving Tommy John surgery or similar procedures.
The $10 million option represents a potential bargain for the Dodgers. "Last winter, veteran back-end guys like Kyle Gibson and Lance Lynn got $13MM and $11MM guarantees on one-year deals, respectively," the original reporting points out. Given Snell’s history as a two-time Cy Young winner, he could be worth far more if he remains healthy and productive into his late thirties.
The option’s conditional nature creates an interesting scenario for the Dodgers.
"It could reduce the chances of Snell being traded while hurt," the article suggests. Compared to Robbie Ray’s situation, where he was traded while recovering from Tommy John surgery, the Dodgers might be more inclined to hold onto Snell if this option is triggered.
Jon Heyman of The New York Post, tweeted: "Per sources, Blake Snell’s deal with the Dodgers: 5 years, $182MM, $13.2MM deferred annually without interest, $5MM assignment bonus if traded.
This minimum $150 million deal for Snell provides security for the 31-year-old pitcher while offering the Dodgers strategic flexibility down the line.
In the event of a major injury, the option allows them to keep a potential ace in the rotation at a significantly discounted rate.
Only time will tell how Snell’s career arc unfolds, but the Dodgers have positioned themselves well with this unique and dynamic contract.
Per sources, Blake Snell’s deal with the Dodgers: 5 years, $182MM, $13.2MM deferred annually without interest, $5MM assignment bonus if traded.
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) December 3, 2024
The MLBPA calculates the net present value of the deal at $150.336MM.
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) December 3, 2024
