How early do other MLS teams usually re-sign DPs and the like, who are approaching end of contract? I thought a half year in advance (i.e. this summer) is normal, as then it's generally assumed that players can start talking freely to other teams.
One exception is selling a player on early, for a big transfer fee (or if there's a big problem with the player). Not the case with our DPs: given their age, current salary, and a few other issues (like Altidore's injuries) I don't think anyone would offer a big transfer fee anyway. I love the guys, but I think TFC would be lucky if anyone would even take on the rest of their contracts at full salary.
What has really changed here (other than Bez leaving)? There has been (supposed) interest in Seba for a couple of years. Remember Barça? Then Mexico around the CCL last year? Seba has been talking about wanting to re-sign and extend quite a bit as well, at least since last summer. Some of that is just based on questions he receives, but I would say he's clearly also trying to negotiate and apply early pressure, via fans and the media. That's OK, but not something I'm going to get too worried about at this point.
Similarly, at the end of last season Altidore made it sound like he might not even be here for the start of this year, and was quite wistful. Clear at that point Bez was still in town, but we collectively got over it. Something might still happen with Altidore, but I'm not going to get too worked up at this point, until I see how he (or his potential replacement) plays.
I think some of us are losing our shit a bit too much, over very little info. I'm not going to take all this talk too serious, but we could potentially also be a bit upset with guys like Altidore and Seba. I still love these guys, but the whole team pretty much stunk in 2018, and most individual performances weren't stellar. Look how quiet Bradley is. They are all getting paid very well, and have a full year left on contract. Let's see how well everyone does in CCL; let's see if the 2019 MLS campaign starts better. Lots of time to observe and negotiate by the summer. It better not affect their performances or "the locker room." With a good start to 2019, all the players will increase their value, either for TFC or another team.