Season 2 - Episode 23 - Contracts...Did You Know?

In our 23rd episode of Season 2, we will discuss the various contract options available to players who sign a minor league contract. This past Sunday, I came across the news that the Atlanta Braves have released catcher James McCann, who was playing for their Triple-A affiliate, the Gwinnett Stripers. This news made me wonder: why on earth would the Braves make this decision? McCann had been with the Stripers all season and was their best and most consistent hitter. 

During his time with the Stripers, McCann played in 41 games and posted a batting average of .297, which was second on the team. He scored 19 runs, hit 11 doubles, and led the team with 6 home runs, finishing with an OPS of .824, also a team best. McCann made his MLB debut in 2014 with the Detroit Tigers but never quite lived up to the high expectations set for him. He was traded to the Chicago White Sox in 2019 and enjoyed his best years there, catching 118 games while batting .273, hitting 26 doubles, 18 home runs, and driving in 60 RBIs—all career highs. 

Capitalizing on his successful seasons with the White Sox, McCann signed a free-agent deal with the New York Mets in 2021 at the age of 31, hoping he had figured things out. He signed a four-year contract worth $40.6 million, and there was optimism surrounding his future. Unfortunately, he struggled through two disappointing seasons with the Mets...