Angels face multiple scenarios with Dylan Bundy decision

Should the Angels explore an extension for Dylan Bundy?

While the perception of a future deal may hang over Dylan Bundy into the offseason, there is of course one way to put some of that talk to rest. If the Angels want to prove that Dylan Bundy is part of the bigger picture moving forward, the time is not to strike on a potential extension.

At 27-years-old, Bundy has one final go at salary arbitration this winter before he hits free agency following the 2021 season. While he’s due for a raise over the prorated $5 million he’ll earn in 2020, there is little belief that it will be a significant increase after the shortened season and looming financial uncertainty around the game.

With those pieces on the table, perhaps the timing is right to discuss a long-term extension with the right-hander, before his value increases any further. The Angels could feasibly swoop in with an offer that is both to his liking and provides the team with some financial flexibility over the next few seasons so that they can add further pieces.

Just spit-balling a little here, but let’s say the Angels offer to buy out Bundy’s final year of arbitration, along with the first two seasons of his free agency, and maybe even throw in an option year taking it through his age-32 season. If they offer a $12 million per annul price tag, that may convince Bundy to sign on the dotted line.

That kind of deal provides him with stability after years of seeing his arbitration weighed down by poor performances. Additionally, it is a below-market price tag for a solid rotation piece in today’s game, allowing the Angels to explore other options down the road.

However, there is one third and final option…