MESA, Ariz. — Christian Yelich’s $188.5 million contract extension with the Brewers reportedly became official Thursday about the same time the White Sox got a $70 million extension done with infielder Yoan Moncada.
Is Javy Baez next?
Baez, the Cubs’ shortstop, said Thursday that ongoing talks between his representatives and the Cubs are “progressing,” but he didn’t know how close they might be — which might suggest relatively slow “progress.”
Sports media pundits jumped on reports of the below-market Yelich deal this week to wonder how it might impact third baseman Kris Bryant’s willingness to sign an extension with the Cubs before becoming a free agent after next season — or before he’s traded in the interim.