Despite looking like a star in the making to begin his career, Eloy Jimenez has not launched into stardom. Now, he is looking for a new home.
Up and Down Former Silver Slugger Headed To Free Agency
Eloy Jimenez came into the league and quickly made waves. He finished fourth in Rookie of the Year voting in 2019 and followed that up with a Silver Slugger award in 2020. His strong rookie season had earned him a big-time contract extension, and after his performance in 2020, it almost seemed like a bargain. However, Jimenez then fell victim to the injury bug and played sparingly over the 2021 and 2022 seasons. Then, Jimenez had a solid 2023 but struggled in 2024 before getting traded to the Orioles. With the Orioles, Jimenez was solid but was nothing special.
After the conclusion of the 2024 season, the Orioles declined Jimenez’s $16.5 million dollar option. Now, he hits Free Agency, hoping someone gives him a shot.
Eloy Jimenez Still Has A Spark
Prior to the trade deadline, Jimenez had hit an all-time low in his career. He was hitting just .240, had only 14 extra-base hits in 65 games, and was on the worst team in baseball. But then, the Orioles took a chance on him and traded for him at the deadline.
During his first month in Baltimore, Jimenez was on an absolute tear. He started his Orioles career by going 8-16 over his first 5 games, including 2 doubles and 3 RBIs. His strong performance continued over August. During August, Jimenez had a .296 batting average. Every stat of Jimenez’s raised during this month shows he still had the traits that made him a star at the beginning of his career.
Despite such a strong August, Jimenez struggled in September. He went 1-24 before eventually being sent down. Clearly, his ceiling was still very high, but down the stretch, he was not providing what the Orioles needed out of him.
What Will Jimenez’s Contract Look Like?
In 2019, Jimenez signed a 6-year, $46 million dollar contract for the White Sox. That contract came to an end following the 2024 season after the Orioles declined his $16.5 million dollar option.
Obviously, Jimenez will not be commanding such a high price during his search for a second contract. He did not live up to the standard of his prior contract.
This upcoming season, a fair deal for Jimenez would be a 1-year deal worth anywhere from 1-3 million dollars, with lots of incentives. Jimenez needs to prove himself as a consistent major leaguer, and this would help him do just that. This would be considered a “prove-it” deal; if he proves it, he is a bargain for the team he signs with. But if Jimenez cannot find consistency, then it’s not a big loss for whoever signs him.
Also, this deal can lead to Jimenez earning a higher contract in future offseasons.
Where Will Jimenez Sign?
Returning to the Orioles is unlikely for Jimenez. They have a plethora of outfielders already on the MLB squad, as well as plenty of rising stars in the Minor leagues.
However, two other American League East teams could show interest in Jimenez.
The Red Sox, who are pursuing Juan Soto, are certainly in the market for a power-hitting outfield. Jimenez would become a very solid platoon player for them.
Additionally, the Blue Jays could be a potential spot for Jimenez. He fits their win-now timeline well, and they have pursued many big-name power hitters over the last few offseasons.
Main Photo Credits: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
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