The curious case of Blake Snell’s free agency is still unraveling as spring training gets underway. The New York Yankees, widely positioned as the top landing spot, have assembled in Tampa for the Grapefruit League without a viable rotational depth. So there’s enough room for Snell, but the pursuit is much more complex.
The two-time CY Young award-winning pitcher played chasing games all season long. He’s asking for a $290 million contract at the stage where most teams have already locked in their roster for the coming season. However, as opening day inches closer, MLB insiders firmly place the New York Yankees as the ultimate landing destination for Blake Snell.
MLB Insider Expects Blake Snell To Land With Yankees This Off-Season
The New York Yankees reported to spring training earlier today. However, the team’s quest for a starting rotational depth is still perpetuating. The front office recently missed out on Corbin Burnes and Dylan Cease as they asked for a top prospect in return. Regardless, the Bombers still have a formidable option in Blake Snell. The reigning NL CY Young pitcher is still unsigned. Having said that, the Yanks did try to pursue him this off-season. Brian Cashman apparently tabled a deal similar to Carlos Rodon’s six-year $162 million contract. But Snell’s agent, Scott Boras, refused to entertain the idea and declined the offer. Having said that, with the off-season closing in, the pitcher must rethink his free-agency approach.
Blake Snell, for long, has been highly ambitious with his free agency approach. He wants to earn close to $300 million owing to his two CY Young accolades and storied success. However, the market is just not strong enough to yield the desired results. That being said, Jim Bowden of The Athletic recently addressed Snell’s free agency uncertainty and referred to the Yanks as the ultimate landing spot. “I think the Yankees ultimately land him. Especially after the Orioles traded for Corbin Burnes,” said Bowden. Since Burnes landed in Baltimore, the Yanks have had second thoughts about its pitching depth. NYY cannot simply afford to let its AL-East rival get any stronger. Thus, Snell remains the last resort. But even for that, the starting pitcher must lower his ask. There is no scenario where Cashman agrees to pay Snell $300 million.
Carlos Rodon On Quest To Prove Himself This Season!
Meanwhile, Carlos Rodon, the 2023 season bust, is gearing up for a strong year 2 with the New York Yankees in 2024. In a recent conversation with Greg Joyce, Rodon said he has some stuff to prove this year. “I want to stay on the field a lot longer than I did last year,” said Rodon.
Carlos Rodon landed on IL with a forearm strain shortly after signing a six-year $162 million contract with the New York Yankees. He could barely make 16 starts in his debut season, wherein his ERA soared over 6. Needless to say, the pitcher will be under tremendous pressure to prove himself on the mound in 2024.
Stay tuned with Sports News International for more such updates about the Yankees and your favorite MLB teams.
