Anthony Rizzo, Cubs reportedly have gap in extension talks

Anthony Rizzo and the Cubs still have a gap as they continue to negotiate a long-term extension. Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Anthony Rizzo, Cubs reportedly have gap in contract extension talks

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports | By Larry Brown | Last updated 3/26/21

The Chicago Cubs reportedly are making an effort to keep Anthony Rizzo long-term.

Rizzo is entering the final season under his contract and set to make $16.5 million this season. According to MLB Network's Jon Heyman, the Cubs have made Rizzo a long-term extension offer. However, there reportedly is a gap between the sides.

Cubs are trying to extend star 1B Anthony Rizzo and have made him an offer. Last word heard is that there’s still a gap. But there’s nearly a week to go before season starts.

— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) March 27, 2021

Rizzo’s $16.5 million salary for this season can be considered a bargain. The Cubs got Rizzo to sign a seven-year, $41 million extension in 2013. They also had a pair of $16.5 million options that they exercised, which is why Rizzo has been with the team so long for such reasonable amounts.

The Cubs shed payroll this offseason, but as the economic situation for MLB teams improves, they might be more willing to spend.

As of a few weeks ago, Rizzo said he was “optimistic” about contract talks. He also set an Opening Day deadline to get things done.

This morning, Anthony Rizzo said he was “optimistic” about where things stood in extension talks with Cubs. Said he’d like to set Opening Day as a deadline of sorts.

And an emphasis on winning now from the Cubs remains a priority for Rizzo. pic.twitter.com/jZn7Puap7l

— Jordan Bastian (@MLBastian) March 12, 2021