At the end of 2017, the Rays signed Kiermaier to a 6 year $53 million contract. They had a cornerstone defensive centerfielder with improving offensive numbers.
While still a great fielder, Kiermaier’s offensive numbers have tumbled since signing the contract. Injries had him disabled for much of 2018. He played in only 88 games; despite that, his batting average in the first three years of his contract have been .217, .228 and .217. In 2019, he did hit 14 home runs but only 7 and 3 the other two years.
Kiermaier has hit some timely post season home runs in both 2019 and 2020. In 2019 playoffs he hit .136 with one home run. However, in 2020 he hit .255 with three home runs.
The Rays through they were getting a valuable centerfielder who was constantly improving his offensive. In the first three years, the offense has not happened.
