The Oakland Athletics need to pony up some "big time money" if they want Oklahoma Sooners two-sport star Kyler Murray to choose baseball over football.
According to one report, Murray is allegedly seeking a number in the $15 million ballpark, or else he plans to declare for the NFL Draft before Monday's deadline. Murray, who won the Heisman as the Sooners quarterback this season, was selected ninth overall by the A's in the 2018 MLB Draft.
According to ESPN, MLB rules prohibit players from signing major league contracts out of the draft. However, because Murray signed a minor league deal, and because his performance at OU significantly altered the circumstances of his baseball career, Oakland would be within the rules to give Murray a long-term extension if that's what it takes to keep him in baseball, sources tell ESPN.
A's executives reportedly met with a marketing executive from MLB and others in Dallas on Sunday, but it remains to be seen whether they'll meet Murray's financial demands. Regardless, it is expected that the 21-year old QB/outfielder will enter the NFL Draft, where could be selected in the first round.
Per ESPN:
"While the draft declaration won't tip Murray's hand, he is facing a decision. He is due into A's camp, where he planned on joining the major league players, by Feb. 15. The NFL combine begins Feb. 26. Whichever sport he chooses, Murray, 21, will need to begin training for it sooner rather than later."
Murray hit .296 with 10 home runs and 47 RBI last season as an outfielder for Oklahoma. As the Sooners QB he passed for 4,053 yards with 40 touchdowns and seven interceptions.