So if what you are suggesting is the case, and it very well can be, there will be no high dollar signing or a trade for high priced starting pitcher unless that high priced guy is on the last year of his contract or as a FA, he accepts a one year deal. Kind of the reason signing Buehler made some sense. This philosophy would also suggest they won’t sign Scott to close either. He would cost too much moving to next year.
I guess they can still trade for Cease, but then he most likely would not be extended. They can also trade for someone like Lopez but know they then have to trade either him or Tailon next off season, regardless of the return. I tend to agree they will not go over next year.
Also, this way if thinking does open up the possibility of Verlander or Scherzer for one year. Not sure I like that idea, but they would probably sign for a year.