The only way the AAV starts next year is if he signs the deal next year. And he isn’t gonna wait so he can fully tear and his shoulder and rehab as a Free Agent.I’m guessing if we agree to a deal that it’ll be confirmed after the season begins so the new AAV kicks in next year instead of this year.
Also if Werner is saying this, it must mean that it’s close. I’m sure they have extension talks with every player every year but no point in mentioning anything unless it’s close.