The New York Yankees, currently on a dominant run, have a lot to worry about the impending free agency. Of course, major attention will be diverted toward generational talent Juan Soto, whose market value is estimated at $500 million. Soto will remain the Yankees’ top priority next year undoubtedly.
However, baseball is a team sport, and the New York Yankees cannot afford to downplay other key pieces of the roster just for the sake of acquiring Juan Soto. In another crucial decision, the Yankees’ best closer, Clay Holmes, is also eligible to hit free agency, and given his spectacular performance this year, his stakes are expected to rise.
Yankees Have A Tough Decision To Make For Clay Holmes!
Clay Holmes is one of the best closers in MLB, is not the best. He is currently leading the AL with nine saves in 13 games and has a 0.00 ERA as Holmes is yet to allow a run this 2024 MLB season. Notably, Holmes also stepped up with a career-high 24 saves last season and made his only All-Star Game appearance in 2022 when he recorded 20 saves. However, the acclaimed relief pitcher is set to enter free agency in 2025 as his contract runs out by the end of the year. When asked about his future in the Bronx, Holmes confirmed that Bombers are yet to contact him for an extension offer and that he’s uncertain what the future holds for him.
That being said, MLB insider Jon Heyman earlier speculated that Clay Holmes could fetch a three-year extension that would essentially be valued at $10 million per year, given his consistency in the past few years. Notably, he’s currently earning $6 million with the Yanks. With Juan Soto being a priority, the Yanks can for sure not afford to ignore Holmes. The team depleted its bullpen depth this year in search of impactful outfielders. But the same approach won’t fetch results for the team in the long term. Hence, it’s essential for the New York-based outfit to find a balance. In conclusion, Clay Holmes’ impending free agency represents a significant decision point for the Yanks. Given Holmes’ contributions to the team’s success, the Bombers cannot afford to forget about signing him.
Juan Soto To Remain Yanks Priority In Upcoming Free Agency!
In a major revelation, Jon Heyman of the New York Post claimed that the New York Yankees intends to prioritize Juan Soto’s extension next off-season. Soto, who was traded earlier this year, will enter free agency in 2025 and is expected to fetch a $500 million mega deal. While many players are keen to have Soto, Yanks are yet to throw in the towel.
Despite the steep asking price, the Yankees will prioritize Juan Soto’s extension over other roster needs. So far, Soto has exhibited the kind of impact he can create in offensive production and also be a source of positive influence in the clubhouse. Indeed, upcoming free agency will keep the fans hooked and offer an exciting tale as generational talent tests free agency waters.
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