Giants star will exercise opt-out clause and return to free agency this winter

Blake Snell had a rocky start with the San Francisco Giants, but he's now back to his old self when it comes to pitching.

The reigning National League Cy Young Award winner has lowered his ERA to 3.91 this season and has a 2.08 mark with 63 strikeouts in his last eight starts, which includes his no-hitter against the Cincinnati Reds.

Snell has an opt-out clause in his two-year, $62 million contract with San Francisco. He was expected to exercise that clause, but on Saturday it became official.

According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, Snell will indeed exercise his opt-out option and return to free agency.

“Giants star Blake Snell will invoke his opt-out clause after a terrible first half, posting a 2.08 ERA with 63 strikeouts and a no-hitter in his last eight starts,” Nightengale wrote. “One thing is for sure: Snell won't wait until spring training to sign this time.”

This news is of course no surprise. Snell has found his rhythm again after a rocky start and has earned the opportunity to opt out of his contract.

He'll likely finally get the deal he wanted last offseason. Teams balked at the idea of ​​offering him a long-term contract, so he was forced to settle for a shorter-term deal with the Giants this spring.

But this offseason, teams probably won't hesitate to give him what he wants. The Giants could potentially keep him if they decide they're serious about winning and competing in the near future.

We'll see what kind of deal the experienced left-hander can get.

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