Report: Freeman could leave Braves due to contract impasse

There's a growing belief All-Star first baseman Freddie Freeman won't re-sign with the Atlanta Braves when free agency resumes due to a standoff in contract talks, according to Buster Olney of ESPN.

The Braves offered Freeman a five-year, $135-million deal before the lockout, but the 2020 NL MVP wants a six-year pact, sources told Olney.

Freeman was reportedly seeking a six-year, $180-million contract prior to the lockout.

"I think (the Braves) will move quickly to settle on an alternative and move on to get past the conversation," an anonymous official said.

Atlanta reportedly discussed a trade with the Oakland Athletics involving All-Star first baseman Matt Olson prior to the work stoppage.

Braves manager Brian Snitker also acknowledged in early February that the team may not be able to bring Freeman back. The New York Yankees, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Toronto Blue Jays were rumored to be interested in the 32-year-old slugger.

Freeman, who's spent his entire 12-year career with the Braves, has hit 271 homers with 941 RBIs and has an .893 OPS in 1,565 games. He's a five-time All-Star who owns multiple Silver Sluggers and a Gold Glove to go along with a World Series title.