Next season I have 2 of my top pitchers with a Mutual Option coming due. I will pick up both options on my end. But what about them? What are some of the factors that determine whether or not a guy accepts the option? The team is a very good, contending team and has been for years. But I made the WS in my other league and had a RP decline a MO. If both opt for FA, it's gonna leave a huge hole in my rotation. One was drafted by me and the other obtained in a trade about 4 seasons ago. Don't know if that matters. I used to use MOs as a signing tool, but no more. Now I figure if I want a guy, I want him for the length of the contract, so no more MOs.

Did you think mutual option meant you got to decide if the player returns?

Mutuals are designed to give BOTH the team and player a choice. If your pitchers are top quality and relatively young(32-33), they're bolting.

No, I knew it gives both the option. And I no longer offer MOs as part of a deal. It was a painful learning experience. They will be 30 & 31 next season. Guess I'll have to budget for a couple of high $$ FAs. Or pay thru the nose to get one or both back. Hoping at least one opts to stay. Don't expect both.