Mike Moustakas and Yasmani Grandal Officially Decline Brewers Options and Enter Free Agency
By Adam Weinrib
Even after all of Mike Moustakas' foibles in free agency, he's willing to try it again, it seems.
Moustakas, one of the league's most valuable power hitters and malleable infielders, hasn't been able to secure a long-term contract since departing Kansas City in 2017. Ultimately, he was forced to re-sign with the team, and found himself traded to Milwaukee midseason.
Moose will have another go 'round this winter; he's declined his mutual option with the Brewers, joining catcher Yasmani Grandal on the open market.
Mike Moustakas and Yasmani Grandal have declined mutual options with Brewers. They are now free agents.
— Robert Murray (@ByRobertMurray) November 1, 2019
Aww, man, they're not even going to stick around to watch the ball and glove become the team's permanent logo! Dang.
Moustakas posted another strong and prototypical season in 2019, hitting for power (35 homers) and a decent average (.254) while moving all around the infield dirt (third and second remain primary options).
The Boston Red Sox, intent on filling the ABs Dustin Pedroia has left vacant for far too long, have long been rumored to be eyeing him as a second base option.
Per the rumor mill, the Brewers remain interested in a Grandal reunion, and the Reds, devoid of a bat behind the plate, will also chase him.
Yasmani Grandal expected to get significant interest in free agency, including the Brewers and Reds, according to sources. Other teams expected to be involved.
— Robert Murray (@ByRobertMurray) November 1, 2019
Cory Spangenberg and Tyler Austin have also both been outrighted off Milwaukee's roster, in a bit of bookkeeping. Unlike Grandal, they're unlikely to return.