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Sunday, February 21, 2021
Colorado Rockies outfielder Ian Desmond is opting out of the 2021 MLB season to spend time with his family, he announced Sunday on Instagram.
“Over the last few months, I’ve had tough conversations,” Desmond wrote. “I’ve asked a lot of questions and done a lot of thinking. For now, I’ve decided to opt out of the 2021 season. My desire to be with my family is greater than my desire to go back and play baseball under these circumstances. I’m going to continue to train and watch how things unfold.”
The 35-year-old was one of several players who opted out of the 2020 campaign due to the COVID-19 pandemic and a wide range of systemic issues within MLB. He’s now the first player to opt out in 2021.
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1. JRVJ Posted: February 21, 2021 at 10:52 AM (#6006072)The guy drafted immediately before Brady actually made the majors, and in fact played pro ball for 17 years!
Desmond doesn’t get paid for spring training anyway. If he just wants to wait until he is vaccinated then he might only give up something like15% his salary.
Once a player opts out, must a team let him back in, at any time? What if valuable prep time is missing?
It might be possible to work in a conditioning stint, but I didn't see any language about this in the covid agreement so I don't think it's on the table.
I'm guessing one reason he uses those terms in order for the last year of his contract 2022 to remain in force. It is for $15M club option with a $2M buyout. So he uses those words to get that buyout next year.
He is retired. But wants the 2M.
To be honest, he is a sub-replacement level player now, so he is kind of being honorable by turning down his salary this year.
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