Santander hasn't had extension talks with Orioles: 'Out of my hands'

Anthony Santander is flying toward free agency, but the Baltimore Orioles All-Star said Thursday there have been no discussions with the team about an extension.

"No, not at all," Santander told MASN's Steve Melewski when asked about contract talks. "Like I said, we are just focusing on helping my team win right now."

Santander will be one of the top bats on the market this offseason once he completes his breakout campaign. The 29-year-old switch-hitter entered Thursday hitting .248/.311/.540 while recording 78 RBIs and a career-best 34 homers.

A first-time All-Star this year, he's been on fire in the second half, slashing .295/.356/.705 with an MLB-best 10 home runs since the break. Santander has also impressed defensively in right field despite his reputation as a bat-first player.

When he does reach the market, there'll be no shortage of suitors for Santander. Not only is he one of the best switch-hitters in baseball, but he'll be among the best available outfielders and could be an alternative for teams that strike out on Juan Soto.

Santander hinted that his first choice is to remain in Baltimore - the organization that selected him in the Rule 5 Draft in 2016. He's also anxious to finish the job with the Orioles and bring the franchise a championship for the first time in over 40 years.

"We are a really good team. This team is about to get in a World Series soon - hopefully this year. Of course, I would like to stay here for the rest of my career. But it's out of my hands," he said. "Just get ready for today's game and go for the win, you know. But at the same time, so happy and thank you for the fans that want me to stay here."