[rink23]

In my St. Louis River Walkers franchise, we in the middle of June of the 2026 season and two of my top players are in their final year before free agency.
The first is the ace of my pitching staff (a 30-yearold right-hander named Alex Faedo) who is probably a top five starter in the league.
Right now, he is 8-2 with a 1.76 ERA in 13 starts.
In terms of an extension, he's asking for $32.5 million per over eight seasons.
The other is my second baseman, the 28-year-old Bo Bichette, who has fluctuated between being a decent player and All-Star level since becoming by everyday player in 2021.
He's also wanting an eight-year deal with a total value of $160 million.
In terms of intangibles, Bichette has a high work ethic and is a fan favorite. Faedo has high loyalty and work ethic but also high greed.
I'd like to keep them both, but not at the price tags they are seeking.
If I make them a decent offer -- I was thinking six-years (final year a team option) at $25 million per season for Faedo; and six years at $18 million (final year a team option) for Bichette - and they turn it down, could it affect their performance down the stretch.
The team is currently tied for first and I'd almost be willing to let them hit free agency -- I don't think I'll be able to keep Faedo -- if a contract fight could cause issues for them down the stretch.