clock menu more-arrow no yes mobile

Filed under:

Community Poll: Predict B.J. Upton's Next Contract

By Blaine Blontz
Aug 11, 2012; Minneapolis, MN, USA: Tampa Bay Rays center fielder B.J. Upton (2) looks on during batting practice before a game against the Minnesota Twins at Target Field. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-US PRESSWIRE
Aug 11, 2012; Minneapolis, MN, USA: Tampa Bay Rays center fielder B.J. Upton (2) looks on during batting practice before a game against the Minnesota Twins at Target Field. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-US PRESSWIRE

Tampa Bay Rays center fielder B.J. Upton figures to be one of the more intriguing players available on the free agent market this winter. Considering his age, position and athleticism, he could generate significant interest. But what type of contract will he warrant?

Jerry Crasnick of ESPN surveyed several major league executives who offered the following guesses regarding Upton’s next contract:

ESPN.com surveyed four MLB executives about Upton's free-agent outlook, and their estimates ran the gamut. A National League general manager predicted that Upton will sign a three-year, $27 million deal. Other executives were more generous, with estimates ranging from four years and $50 million to five years and $70 million. The Rangers, Nationals, Phillies, Braves, Red Sox, Yankees, Reds, Giants and Cubs are among the teams that could be searching for outfield help this offseason, and there's no telling how spirited the bidding might get.

On the season, Upton has hit .246/.298/.441 with twenty-four doubles, twenty-three home runs and thirty steals. Over eight seasons in the majors, he’s hit .255/.336/.420.

More From MLB Daily Dish