Why Dodgers shouldnt wait to extend Freddie Freemans contract

Freddie Freeman wants to finish his career with the Dodgers.The Dodgers want that to happen, too.So, just make it official already.Open talks about a two-year contract extension.Have it signed by the end of the season.Why not?“Believe me, I would love to get something done now,” Freeman said.Rather than use this as an opportunity to push for a new deal, the ever-agreeable Freeman tried to be a voice of reason.

He said he didn’t want to force the Dodgers into making a commitment before they’re ready to do so.Freeman mentioned he will be 37 in September.He pointed out that he remains under contract for next season.

And with baseball’s collective bargaining agreement expiring at the end of the calendar year, the Dodgers could play under radically different financial rules next season.California's top news, sports and entertainment delivered to your inbox every day.

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Never miss a story “I see both sides,” Freeman said.“Right now, there are so many variables that are unknown.

It’s hard to even talk about right now.”Here’s the counterargument: The unknowns are why this extension must be wrapped up sooner rather than later.By now, team owners have made clear they want to control the cost of labor to increase their franchises’ values.What remains uncertain is whether they will get their way, and if they do, whether it will result in a salary cap or more severe luxury-tax penalties.For argument’s sake, let’s imagine the most extreme outcome: The owners succeed in including a salary cap in the next CBA.

Even then, the league is unlikely to force the Dodgers and other high-spending teams to be salary-cap compliant by next season.The Dodgers couldn’t possibly be expected to reduce their $400-million-plus payroll by $150 million to $200 million.Which is why team officials around the league e...