The Toronto Blue Jays explored a contract extension with Marcus Stroman before trading him to the New York Mets, general manager Ross Atkins revealed Monday, according to Sportsnet's Ben Nicholson-Smith.
Atkins said the Blue Jays spoke to Stroman's agent "multiple times over the last couple of weeks" regarding a possible extension and that there were other intermittent discussions dating back well before July. The two sides ultimately failed to strike a deal, paving the way for Sunday's trade.
"It felt as though that gap was too big," Atkins said of the negotiations.
Stroman, 28, had repeatedly expressed a desire to remain in Toronto long-term. When reports surfaced suggesting the team had been exploring the idea of an extension, he tweeted that it was news to him.
Atkins clarified that though the Blue Jays were working toward an extension, they never submitted a specific offer, according to Shi Davidi of Sportsnet.
Asked whether talks stalled due to financial details or the length of the contract, Atkins said, "I'm referring to both - total value, really, is what it comes down to. That's all I'll say about that."
