Report: Nelson Cruz to become free agent after $3M buyout from Nats

The Washington Nationals will buy out a $16 million mutual option on Nelson Cruz for $3 million, according to Talk Nats. Cruz will effectively become a free agent this offseason.

The 42-year-old Cruz signed a one-year deal with the Nationals in March, including a mutual option for the 2023 season. Cruz received $12 million in base salary for this season. The $3 million buyout option guaranteed him $15 million.

In his 18th MLB season, Cruz hit .234/.313/.337 with 10 home runs and 64 RBI in 124 games with the Nationals. Many expected Cruz moved around the trade deadline, but his disappointing play and issues with his vision made him less attractive to contenders.

Cruz last played on Sept. 13. An eye injury kept him out of the lineup for the final 20 games. He underwent surgery to remove inflammation from his left eye this week Talk Nats added.

According to previous reports, Cruz will resume baseball activities in six to eight weeks. Earlier this month, Cruz reiterated his plans to play baseball next year.