Free agent outfielder Adam Duvall is coming off a dismal 2024 season where he batted .182 with 11 home runs and 30 RBI in 104 games with the Atlanta Braves. Duvall is a former All-Star and Gold Glove Award winner, and he reportedly drew interest from the Kansas City Royals, per Pete Grathoff of the Kansas City Star.
However, a new development emerged late Monday night. Joel Sherman of the New York Post reported that Duvall declined the Royals’ offer due to money. Sherman says the Royals offered a $1 million base contract that included an opportunity to earn an extra $1 million in performance bonuses.
“He turned it down and has informed teams that if he is not guaranteed at least $3 million, he is going to retire,” Sherman wrote.
Adam Duvall Turned Down Offer From Royals Due to Money
Duvall’s stance aligns with Anthony Rizzo’s comments to The Athletic about the importance of not undervaluing oneself for the sake of future player contracts. Last season, Brandon Belt faced a similar situation. He reportedly turned down an incentive-based offer from the Mets and chose to sit out the year. While Belt hasn’t officially announced his retirement, he doesn’t appear to be seeking opportunities this offseason.
Duvall struggled overall with the Braves but remained effective against left-handed pitching, slashing .252/.342/.514. The Royals had interest in adding him as a middle-of-the-lineup bat versus lefties but were hesitant to meet his salary demands. Their reluctance reflects a growing trend in baseball, where teams are increasingly wary of committing significant money to aging players with declining production.
This shift in spending has made it harder for veteran free agents to land deals that match their perceived value. Power hitters with defensive versatility face a tougher market. Instead of securing multi-year contracts, many settle for short-term or incentive-heavy deals, if not, others consider retirement. Teams prefer younger, cheaper players with more upside. As a result, free agents in their mid-to-late 30s have fewer opportunities and must adjust their expectations.
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