The New York Yankees received devastating news earlier today as Yoshinobu Yamamoto reached a decision. As per multiple reports, the Japanese ace pitcher has agreed to a 12-year contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers for a whopping salary of $325 million. The contract will make Yamamoto the most expensive pitcher in the history of the league.
Having said that, the Yankees also stayed in the fight but couldn’t match the Dodgers or even the Mets’ offer. Apparently, the duo offered the same amount, but Yoshinobu Yamamoto chose to head to LA. Having said that, the Bronx Bombers cannot rest and must stay in the market to fetch an alternative. They simply cannot afford to head into the 2024 season with an incomplete pitching rotation.
Yankees Have One Rotation Spot To Fill Ahead Of 2024 MLB Season!
Undoubtedly, the New York Yankees were left hurt after missing out on Yoshinobu Yamamoto this off-season. However, they called it upon themselves as they voluntarily refrained from surpassing the $300 million figure. Having said that, it’s time for the front office to not dwell on the past and focus on alternatives. So far, the pitching rotation for the impending season consists of Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodon, Nestor Cortes, and Clarke Schmidt. As far as free agency is concerned, the Bombers can opt for Jordan Montgomery and even Blake Snell. While the Yanks have internally discussed a reunion with Montgomery, Snell seems to be a far-fetched option. Besides, right-handers Dylan Cease and Corbin Burners are a couple of trade alternatives.
On the other hand, the Yankees also seek in-house reinforcement. Frankie Montas left a strong impression after returning late during the regular 2023 season. He is open to a reunion, and Boone thinks highly of his resilience. Besides, the likes of Will Warren, Luis Gil, and Chase Hampton are also in the mix for promotion, as earlier confirmed by skipper Aaron Boone. Moreover, industry rumors have it that the Yanks are strongly looking at Warren to be their fifth starter for the 2024 season. Having said that, the Bronx Bombers have options but must move swiftly. Bold decisions are the need of the hour. Undoubtedly, there is no replacement for Yamamoto. All the Yanks can do is back themselves with whatever talent they possess to fall back into the World Series contention.
Yoshinobu Yamamoto Once Faced Yankee Slugger’s Wrath In WBC!
Japanese ace pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto toyed around with Yankee fans’ feelings after signing with the Los Angeles Dodgers. He expressed interest in joining the New York-based outfit but switched stance at the last minute to land with LA. Having said that, MLB insiders do not expect a rousing welcome for the ace the next time he sets foot in the Bronx.
Moreover, Yankees’ newly acquired slugger Alex Verdugo holds a good record against Yoshinobu Yamamoto. In World Baseball Classics, Verdugo hit Yamamoto to score a tiebreaker RBI for his team, Mexico. Thus, the Yankee fans would hope for Verdugo to follow the same suit in MLB as well. For context, the Yanks and Dodgers are set to clash in June next year at Yankee Stadium.
