Adrian Beltre has said he'd like to finish his career with the Rangers. The Rangers say they'd like to make that happen.
But with the team's season opener at hand and Beltre entering the final year of his contract, the third baseman says he's surprised the club has not yet offered him an extension.
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"We've still got nothing to say 'yes' or 'no,' to," Beltre told the Dallas Morning News. "I would have thought that we'd have that by now. But I'm not worrying about it by any means."
The four-time All Star turns 37 on April 7, but is still producing at a high level. He hit 18 home runs last year and had an OPS of .788. He reportedly is seeking a three-year extension worth $19 million annually, slightly more than the annual take on his current six-year, $96 million deal.
While the Rangers have discussed an extension with Beltre's agent, Scott Boras, talks have fizzled for now. Beltre says he'd prefer not to negotiate after the season begins, and the Rangers typically do not talk about contracts during the season. But Rangers general manager Jon Daniels said this might be an exception to the rule.
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"We haven't (tabled talks)," Daniels told the Morning News. "It's generally been our policy not to (negotiate) in season, but we have made an exception on occasion.
"Whether we get something done now or whether it's later, nothing has changed how we feel about Adrian. We could not have a higher opinion or appreciation of him on and off the field. It's very clear where we stand: We want him to be here beyond this year."
Beltre says he doesn't want his contract negotiations to become a "distraction" in the clubhouse.
"I don't think it's fair to my teammates," Beltre said. "I don't want to be a distraction to them."