The MLB has seen a flurry of long-term contract extensions signed since Opening Day, including big names like Garrett Crochet and Jackson Merrill. This unusual trend may be due to the upcoming possibility of a lockout in 2026, uncertainty surrounding the next CBA, and the benefits of securing a guaranteed payday now. Teams are also benefiting from locking in young talent at below-market value through these extensions. Some extensions for players may have negative outcomes, but teams generally find them beneficial. By signing players to discounted deals before a soft Opening Day deadline, teams can secure top talent and retain Prospect Promotion Incentive (PPI) status. With upcoming free-agent classes becoming thinner, teams are increasingly motivated to lock in their key players long-term to avoid losing them to other teams in the future. the text you provide.
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Why have there been so many MLB contract extensions? Six possible explanations for post-Opening Day frenzy
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