Why on Earth did Toronto Blue Jays starting pitcher Shane Bieber accept his $16 million player option for the 2026 season? After a good showing in 2025, Bieber likely would have demanded north of $16 million in AAV on a new deal had he opted out, in addition to $4 million in buyout cash. Rather than secure himself $20 million plus (estimate) on the market, not to mention a multi-year deal, Bieber decided to take $16 million to remain with the Jays for one more season, guaranteeing himself zero dollars beyond that.

It was a decision from Bieber that analyst are trying to understand, but in almost all cases failing to. The Athletic ‘s Ken Rosenthal discussed the perplexity of Bieber’s opt-in on a new episode of Foul Territory this week.

“I was surprised,” Rosenthal said . “People

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