“Frontrunners to sign Corbin Burnes” - MLB insider's honest thoughts on Giants' push for $200M ace and Buster Posey’s big-market vision

The San Francisco Giants are the likeliest destination for Corbin Burnes, insider Jon Morosi believes. During an appearance on MLB Network on Monday, Morosi went over the latest news surrounding the coveted free-agent starter.

In particular, Morosi said:

"The Giants are viewed by many as one of the frontrunners, perhaps the frontrunner, to sign Corbin Burnes."

The comments come on the heels of the Giants signing Willy Adames earlier this offseason to a seven-year, $182 million deal.

Now, the Giants’ attention turns to pitching with Corbin Burnes being their prime target. According to Morosi, Burnes’ camp is looking to eclipse Max Fried’s $218 million contract signed with the New York Yankees.

As such, Burnes is seeking a deal of at least $200 million, though the aim will be to get a bigger payday than Fried.

Morosi outlined President of Baseball Operations Buster Posey’s vision, highlighting how Posey is looking to make a big splash in this offseason’s free agent market.

Signing Adames was a significant step in that direction. Then, adding a top-tier arm like Corbin Burnes should provide the Giants with the stability they seek atop their rotation heading into next season and beyond.

No deal close for Corbin Burnes and San Francisco Giants

Morosi was adamant about the fact that Corbin Burnes and the Giants are not close to a deal at this point. The comments signal that negotiations could be in the early stages.

However, Morosi was clear about Burnes’ link to the Bay Area. Burnes is from Bakersfield, California, and pitched at Centennial High School before moving on to St. Mary’s College to pitch at the collegiate level.

Thus, there is a link that would make the Giants a good landing spot for Burnes. While San Francisco may be the frontrunner to sign Burnes, other teams are reportedly interested. The Toronto Blue Jays are said to be making an aggressive push for Burnes after missing out on Juan Soto. Similarly, the Orioles are believed to be in the mix to retain the 2021 CY Young Award winner.

Ultimately, it seems Burnes’ decision will come down to the team that meets his asking price. So, if the Giants meet Burnes’ desired contract demands, they could be the fortunate club to sign him.

Morosi concluded that signing with San Francisco would be an ideal family solution for Burnes. So, it seems it will only be a matter of time before Burnes inks his name on a deal with the Giants.