MLB spring training is quickly nearing its end, and it won't be much longer before the Atlanta Braves are back playing meaningful games at Truist Park. Braves fans are hoping to see Brian Snitker's club return to prominence after last season's 89-win performance saw their AL West title streak end after six consecutive campaigns atop the division.
The Opening Day clash with the San Diego Padres is just over three weeks away, meaning now's a good time to check in on what former Braves players are up to. Atlanta parted ways with several free agents this offseason, and while a good chunk of them have already landed new jobs, Adam Duvall is one who's still looking for an opportunity.
Although he's received some offseason interest, the veteran outfielder is reportedly looking for a specific offer. If he doesn't receive it, he might walk away from baseball altogether.
Braves Rumors: Adam Duvall to Retire Unless He Receives $3 Million Contract
According to the New York Post's Joel Sherman, the Kansas City Royals recently offered Duvall a one-year contract worth up to $2 million. The former Braves OF wasn't happy with the offer and has since made it clear that he's comfortable with retiring from the MLB if his contract demands aren't met.
"(Duvall) turned (the Royals' offer) down and has informed teams that if he is not guaranteed at least $3 million, he is going to retire," Sherman wrote.
Adam Duvall will opt to retire if his MLB free agency price isn’t met https://t.co/og14qDqp9j pic.twitter.com/8eC1hVxqSL
— New York Post (@nypost) March 3, 2025
While some fans might view Duvall's mindset as being overly dramatic, there's nothing wrong with holding out for the right deal. The 36-year-old former MLB All-Star has made over 1,050 appearances between the regular season and playoffs since 2014, earning him the right to take as much time as he needs to make a decision.
At the same time, Duvall can't wait forever. Clubs are looking to fill out their rosters as soon as possible before Opening Day, and taking too long to find the right offer could see the ex-Louisville Cardinal miss out on any potential playing opportunities.
It's going to be interesting to see if Duvall ends up landing the $3 million fully guaranteed contract he's looking for. He didn't live up to expectations while earning that same number with the Braves last season, mustering just 11 home runs and 30 RBIs with 99 strikes and a career-worst .182/.245/.569 slash line.
In other words, it isn't surprising to see a team like the Royals offering Duvall a performance-based contract rather than rewarding him with blind faith.
With most MLB clubs making their 2025 regular-season debut on Thursday, March 27, the clock is ticking for Duvall to decide on his playing future. If he isn't willing to at least entertain the idea of a discounted deal, it might be easier for him to hang up his cleats sooner rather than later.