Angels GM Jerry Dipoto will continue extension talks with the representatives for Erick Aybar but doesn't foresee completing a deal before the start of the season, writes Alden Gonzalez in MLB.com. Working out an extension at some point is still "very much a possibility" but Dipoto doesn't see it happening before Opening Day.
The shortstop, who avoided arbitration with the Halos by agreeing to a one-year, $5.075MM deal, is set to hit the open market after this season. The Angels worked out a four-year, $33.5MM deal with Howie Kendrick last month to cover the 28-year-old's final year of arbitration and first three years of free agency.
I think Aybar’s days with the Angels are numbered, and were sealed when Kendrick signed long-term. Now, Jean Segura’s going to replace Aybar at SS, after Aybar is either traded or goes free-agent. What Aybar does this season will help determine his fate, as well.
somewhat agree, but i think it depends more on how Segura does than Aybar. If Aybar becomes and all star and has a huge year, he is in for a payday. If Segura has a good year and progresses into AA and hopefully AAA, i could see them letting Aybar walk and collecting picks
I’m kind of undecided on Aybar. Great defensively, but it just seems like his brain goes blank on a consistent basis. He could be a really special player if he had that sense of focus, and he’s still a top 10 SS in the bigs right now. If he gets too pricey (substantially above the cash that Kendrick got), I wouldn’t be too sad letting him go. If he could be had on a reasonable 3 or 4 year deal it would be great to keep him around too.
I think he’ll ultimately decide his own fate; either sign with the Angels for slightly less or cash in on the open market.
Man I hope Aybar hits the open market next off season. He would fit perfectly into the Padres plans, good defence and speed, and is familiar Black. Make it happen Josh.
I wouldn’t say he is familiar with Bud Black. Not a pitcher, and only played in 30 or so games the last year Black was with the Angels
I like Aybar good glove strong arm but he lapses when it comes to the routine play, he can make the spectacular, play but your everyday routine play his arm seems to fall off
If you’ve watched Aybar play consistently at all since 2009, you’d know that he has greatly improved at making the routine and spectacular plays.
I like Aybar and would love to see him in a Blue Jays uniform, however, I’m not sure there’s a fit for him in Toronto.
huh?
Yunel Escobar is a far superior player in pretty much every way. There is no need to want to see him in a Jay uniform
i’m sure aybar is very capable at 2nd. i dunno much about the jays but looking at your depth chart, he could be a possible upgrade there.
I’d Take Kelly Johnson’s walks and hr’s over Aybar’s singles any day
and kelly johnsons gold glove defensive play…oh wait
aybar is not much better
kj is above average
Plenty of meh defenders get Gold Gloves just because they can hit.
Big mistake from the Halos if they let him walk. They’ll be waiting for a long time before they find a SS as solid as him.
Segura.
It would be nice to see Pittsburgh work out a deal for him. They could definitely use a shortstop.
Worst case- Angels deal him mid-season to the Braves if Pastornicky isn’t producing well enough. You’ll get something solid for him.