Alex Verdugo, Crimson Sox haven’t had critical discussions about extension

Crimson Sox

“In the event that they need to speak, we are able to speak.”

Alex Verdugo #99 of the Boston Red Sox celebrates his walk-off home run as Bo Bichette #11 of the Toronto Blue Jays heads for the clubhouse during the ninth inning at Fenway Park on May 1, 2023 in Boston, Massachusetts.
Alex Verdugo, pictured right here, has expressed curiosity of a contract extension a number of occasions. Winslow Townson/Getty Photos

Alex Verdugo has discovered a house in Boston. And he doesn’t need to go away it.

Verdugo advised WEEI’s Rob Bradford that he and the Crimson Sox haven’t had critical talks a few contract extension but, regardless of his want to remain in Boston past the size of his contract, which ends after the 2024 season.

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“I at all times fiddle with them about it,” Verdugo stated, “however I don’t suppose there was something critical to this point.”

Verdugo doesn’t seem burdened in regards to the finish of his contract, selecting to concentrate on performing for his staff one 12 months at a time. 

“What I plan on doing goes principally 12 months to 12 months,” Verdugo stated. “It’s the simplest strategy to get your mindset the place you do it 12 months to 12 months and you’ll get paid for no matter you do this 12 months.”

But when the Crimson Sox current him with an extension alternative, the outfielder will fortunately pay attention.

“In the event that they need to speak, we are able to speak,” he stated.

This isn’t the primary time Verdugo has been vocal about his want for a contract extension. He advised The Boston Globe’s Alex Speier, “I’m all ears” with reference to potential negotiations in June. However Verdugo takes a lighthearted strategy to Boston’s entrance workplace, usually joking about an extension with the individuals who management his future as a Crimson Sox.

“I’ll mess with Chaim [Bloom] and Eddie [Romero] and Sam [Kennedy] and John [Henry]. I’ll mess with these guys by simply telling them, ‘Hey man, lengthen me. I might love to remain right here.’ It’s at all times simply laughs.”

To date, nothing critical has been mentioned. And to Verdugo, that’s okay for now.

“We haven’t actually truly talked about something. For me, it’s about protecting it mild and having enjoyable.”

Verdugo began the season off scorching, making a real case for MLB All-Star consideration as Boston’s leadoff hitter. However he has discovered himself in a funk lately, along with his numbers dropping to 134/.213/.239 since June 28.

“I really feel like my timing is off proper now,” Verdugo stated. “…I really feel like there are some at-bats the place I really feel shut, and there are different at-bats the place I took a few steps again.”

Regardless of his droop, Verdugo stays optimistic that he’ll get out of it and contribute to a Crimson Sox playoff push.

“It’s a part of the grind,” Verdugo stated. “It’s a part of the battle. You don’t need to be too exhausting on your self with it. I really feel good and we all know we’re going to get out of it and have a pleasant little end.”

No matter his struggles, Verdugo has been considered one of Boston’s most vital gamers this 12 months. His season stats of .274/.348/.432 and 39 RBIs show as such. He will likely be a free agent after the 2024 season, however he hopes that he and the Crimson Sox will delay that date with the contract extension he seeks and jokes about.