Chavez has taken a great liking to the community and players of Edmonton. He has such a sense of newfound security he has become adamant about not changing anything in his life. Like, literally anything.
On July 16, Bauer asked Chavez what he would like as far as a contract extension. The manager replied, "something like 5 years at $1 million per year."
Bauer replied, "we like you Alonso but we normally don't do 5-year commitments to our staff. We like to keep it in 1-3 year range. What do you think about $1.1 million for 2 years?"
Chavez responded, "let me talk to my family and get back to you tonight."
Bauer that night then received a most puzzling email from Chavez.
Chavez replied, "Gotta talk to my agent, sir. Let you know tonight."
But history repeated itself, and Bauer was rebuffed again.
So then came July 30 and the next meeting between Bauer and Chavez.
"Look Alonso, I get that you are really serious about the 5 years," conveyed Bauer. "We usually don't do those for personnel, but tell you what I'm going to accommodate you. But you're going to have make a concession for us. Would you accept $700k for the next 5 years?"
"Let me get back to you tonight," Alonso again replied. Bauer could only roll his eyes.
And sure enough that night, like clockwork, a reply spurning the offer came via email.
