In MLB, how soon can a free agent be traded after he signs with a team?

Question

Example: Yankees sign Roger clemens to an extension a week after the 2007 world sereies. Clemen then publishes a book on how crazy he thinks Steinbrenner's family is, angering George. Theoretically how soon can the Yankees trade him to the Red Sox or any other team?

Answer 1

A player cannot be traded before June 1st, if they sign a free agent deal with a team that year. They can waive the right not to be traded if for example a team tells them they are just going to be riding the bench.

Answer 2

There is no limit, subject to the terms of the players contract. Many players (and I have no doubt Clemens is one) have clauses in their contract that say they cannot be traded without their permission, or which limit the teams the player could be traded to.

Answer 3

As soon as he finishes signing the contract. Before the ink dries.

As soon as he signs, he is the "property" of that team and they can do what they want.

One exception: if a "no-trade" clause is written into the contract, restricting when/where the player can be traded.

Answer 4

Well, if hes signed to the Yankees, then hes not a free agent.


And, if he doesnt have a no-trade clause, then George can trade him whenever.

Answer 5

The player can be trade A.S.A.P. It does not matter how long or how short they are on the team, once a player signs he is property of that team and that team is in charge and may do whatever they want to him.

Answer 6

As soon as the ink dries that teams owns his rights and can trade/waive him at any time.

Answer 7

right after they signed him (if they wanted to)

Answer 8

anytime