The New York Yankees might still be far from over with their offseason plans. Albeit, the spring training is coming soon. Hence, they have to make the necessary changes as soon as possible. Initially, the Bronx Bombers were looking for a couple of lefty outfielders and a starting pitcher in free agency. That’s what Brian Cashman said to the press in November in Scottsdale, Arizona. However, the biggest name they were able to land this winter did not come from free agency. But the NY side used a lot of their pitching resources to land Juan Soto from the San Diego Padres.
Anyhow, the Dominican slugger will be a free agent at the very end of the 2024 season. Moreover, the Yankees signed a few more hitters and pitchers to increase depth in their roster. However, the NY side can’t help but realize that they have not signed a good starting pitcher from free agency as planned. Albeit, the Bronx Bombers did sign Marcus Stroman for a two-year deal. However, the NY side is looking for a bigger fish like Blake Snell from the current free agency who fits alongside Gerrit Cole.
Will Yankees Let Blake Snell Go To Other Teams Or Land Him Anyway?
Initially, someone said Blake Snell wanted to play for Seattle Mariners, his hometown franchise. But the Mariners might not be able to match the desired contract of the two-time Cy Young winner. But the boat perhaps has not sailed yet. Moreover, the MLB insider, Bob Nightengale mentioned that the Yankees have made a very cautious offer to Blake Snell. Adding to that, the USA Today columnist said Snell wants a 9-year deal worth $270 million deal. However, the Yankees countered his wish with an offer for a six-year contract worth $150 million. Generally, nowadays, teams are not trying to take risks with a long-term contract for pitchers.
Considering pitchers like Carlos Rodon, Jacob deGrom, and Chris Sale, they have struggled with age. As a result, the Yankees are reluctant to take risks. Already, they have more than a $300 million payroll this winter. Hence, it is a confusing and a troublesome decision to make for both parties, the NY side, and Blake Snell. Either Snell would have to sit out an entire season because he has not been flexible. Or the Yankees will have to let a championship-caliber pitcher go out again. They already missed out on the opportunity to land the Japanese sensation Yoshinobu Yamamoto.
The Bronx Bombers Might Not Want To Let Snell Go?
The 27-time champions were favorites to land Yamamoto. He has been the Sawamura Award winner. It is equivalent to the Cy Young Award. Now, Blake Snell is a two-time Cy Young Award winner. On top of that, ace pitcher and the 2023 Cy Young winner Gerrit Cole wants Snell to join the Bronx Bombers. Even Aaron Judge seemed positive too about bringing Snell in. But the hands of Brian Cashman and his front office are tied because of the concern over injuries with pitchers for longer deals.
However, Blake Snell so far never had to go through Tommy John surgery. On top of that, Snell’s laurels are quite commendable. Now, the question remains if the Yankees will swallow Snell’s wish of $120 million for three years. After all, he has some unmatched qualities that might entice the Yankees.
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