MLB Rumors: Free Agent Closer Craig Kimbrel Might Sit Out 2019 Season

UPDATE (6 P.M. ET): Craig Kimbrel’s agent is refuting an earlier report of the free-agent pitcher potentially sitting out the entire 2019 Major League Baseball season:

Craig Kimbrel’s agent, David Meter, on the report that Kimbrel is considering sitting out the season: “The report is wholly inaccurate and Craig looks forward to signing a new contract in the near future. Any report pertaining to his not playing this season is utterly false.”

— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) February 23, 2019

ORIGINAL STORY: Will we see Craig Kimbrel on a Major League Baseball diamond this season?

According to former MLB general manager and current The Athletic reporter Jim Bowden, we may not.

Kimrel, a seven-time All-Star, entered free agency looking for a massive contract in the neighborhood of six yeas and $100 million, but thus far has had no luck. Despite that, Kimbrel reportedly hasn’t lowered his asking price, and may consider sitting out the 2019 season if no teams meet his demands.

According to multiple GMs Craig Kimbrel asking price has still not come down and sources close to Kimbrel think he will consider sitting out the year if he doesn’t get close to his perceived value.

— Jim Bowden (@JimBowdenGM) February 23, 2019

The 30-year-old has been one of the most reliable closers in MLB history since entering the league in 2010, but he may not be able to receive the contract he is looking for due to a stagnant free agent market.