The San Diego Padres didn't trade Chase Headley this summer because they would prefer to sign him to a long-term deal.
The Padres almost certainly can't afford the 29-year-old without a hometown discount.
"My first choice would be to stay here," Headley said. "I love our coaching staff. I love a lot of the guys here. That said, you have to at least understand where you are positioned in the market. It doesn't benefit myself or the other players to go out and sign a deal just to sign a deal, without it being a good deal.
"I'm not actively trying to get to free agency, but trying to get what you are worth is important. It would be foolish not to at least pay attention. I'm not going to sell myself short."