He was pretty good in 15 and 16. I think 17 and 18 were just career years. I don't see him "declining" but just having more typical seasons (which are still pretty good BTW).
I have no idea if he prefers short term money or years. Maybe he gets a 3 year deal instead of a 4 year deal if he stays? IDK.
Would would he just retire? I'm confused.
I think he'll probably get a QO whenever his contract is done. Maybe he's doing the math to weigh his preference between $19.35 + QO (accept QO in 23) or QO declined + net impact on potential FA $$$.
Depending on the market, he could get a 4-5 deal most likely.
The question is, does the opt out help or hurt the Sox? Can they use that money elsewhere? Pitching perhaps?
The only difference is that Cruz is much longer in the tooth. There's a higher concern that he falls off the cliff some year.
For reference, JD would be Cruz' current age in 2028. Maybe he believes he can be as productive for that long and wants a multiple year deal?
Streaky is a better description for a high K guy like Dalbec. He'll have a 600 OPS for a month and then 1200 OPS for a week and a half and then back to 600 OPS.