Freddie Freeman agent Casey Close says Atlanta Braves perpetuating ‘false narrative’

Agent Casey Close accused Atlanta Braves, in a statement made to ESPN, of creating a “false story” about the departure of Freddie Freeman. This was in reference to allegations that Freeman joined the Los Angeles Dodgers. It has been a long-running fallout.

Close’s involvement in Freeman’s departure to Atlanta for the Los Angeles Dodgers brought questions to a head Wednesday when Doug Gottlieb, a radio host, accused Close of withholding Freeman’s final offer from the Braves. Close previously stated that this was “an inaccurate description” and that Excel is currently “evaluating all legal options to address recklessly publishing inaccurate information.”

Close stated in a follow up statement that he would not accept the mischaracterization of the circumstances surrounding Freddie Freeman leaving Atlanta. The Braves have created a false narrative about negotiations since March. The false narrative that I failed to communicate a contract offer the Freemans is part of that false narrative. We communicated all offers made and every communication Excel had with Braves throughout the whole process. In this industry, I have built a reputation for integrity and honesty over the past 30 years. I also have the best character and have always been honest. Excel has the privilege of representing many outstanding athletes. Some have chosen to spend their whole careers with one team. We have always put the player’s best interests and goals first, and we will continue to do this.”

Negotiations for a contract extension between Freeman and the Braves began last season. Freeman was with the Braves from the 2007 draft until their 2021 World Series win. Freeman requested free agency, but he didn’t sign prior to the Dec. 1, lockout. Close describes the events that occurred after the reopening of free agency.

Close spoke to ESPN by phone and said that three offers had been made — one in August and one at the start of 2021, and the last one for five-years and $135m — and were sent formally via email. Close claimed that Freeman (32), was never offered by the Braves in a formal manner during free agency. He also said that the Braves’ final offer — for five-years and $140m — was made March 12th by Alex Anthopoulos, general manager of the Braves. Close stated that he had discussed the possibility of an offer with Freeman, but that it was not firm.

Freeman was a target of the Tampa Bay Rays and Dodgers, but discussions were confined to possible terms, not offers. Multiple media reports claimed that Close gave an ultimatum the Braves. They would have one hour to choose between a five-year contract worth $165 million or a six-year contract worth $175 million. Close stated to ESPN that he never gave an ultimatum or set a deadline for negotiations.

Two days after the talks ended, the Braves made a prospect-laden trade to Oakland for All Star first baseman Matt Olson. They soon signed Olson to an eight-year contract worth $168 million. Freeman signed a six-year, $162million deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers on March 17.

ESPN reached out to the Braves for comment, but they have not yet made any public statements about the Freeman discussions.

Freeman was greeted with a standing ovation upon his return to Atlanta this weekend, highlighting the complicated nature of his free agency. Although Freeman stated before the series that he had no regrets about signing with the Dodgers’, the effect on his life is still evident. Clayton Kershaw, the Dodgers’ star, said to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, “I hope that we’re not second fiddle” in Freeman’s mind.

Freeman’s weekend return to Atlanta coincided with the firing of Excel Sports Management. Close runs Excel’s baseball division and Freeman is Victor Menocal, who is Close’s long-term day-to-day agent. ESPN’s Buster Olney reports that Freeman also fired Excel Sports Management. When asked if he had fired Excel, Freeman said that his relationship with Excel was “fluid”. Freeman was the second client to leave Excel this winter. Trevor Story, a six-year, $140m free agent deal with Boston Red Sox then left Excel to make way for Wasserman.