The New York Yankees have already built a strong starting roster for the upcoming 2023 MLB season during the trade season. Their quest for a championship title could finally end with this strong bullpen led by Aaron Judge. FYI, Judge signed a nine-year deal worth $360 million, making him the highest-paid baseball player in the history of MLB and possibly a forever Yankee. Moreover, they acquired Carlos Rodon to lead the pitching duties.
Meanwhile, the annual international free agent market opened on 15th January 2023. The market will allow the clubs to acquire the best of promising international young talents. The most decorated team in MLB, New York Yankees, seems to have already made its first move. According to rumors, the Bombers have signed a young Cuban Outfielder to their roster.
Reports: Yankees Sign 17-Year-Old Cuban Hitter Brando Mayea
As soon as the international free agent market opened up on Sunday, the news of the Yankees making its first sign-in already started doing rounds. According to Jesse Sanchez of MLB.com, the Yankee front office has signed a $4.35 million deal with a Cuban outfielder, Brandon Mayea. Thus, the Bombers have given out 80% of the bonus pool to the Cuban this season. Therefore, Brandon with join the young international brigade of the Yankees, which includes Jasson Domínguez ($5 million) and Roderick Arias ($4 million).
Brandon Mayea is a 17-year-old hitter originating from Cuba. According to MLB.com, his strong bat swing and arm power make him stand out. Moreover, he can also play in the center field owing to his strong throwing arm. Furthermore, MLB.com has ranked Brandon 9th in the top 10 international prospects list for the 2023 season and termed him as one of the most exciting players this season.
Bronx Re-Sign Pitching Coach Matt Blake In A Three-Year Contract
Brain Cashman hinted at Matt Blake’s return during the Carlos Rodon induction press conference. He said the club wishes to have Blake back into the fold, whose last contract expired in 2022. Matt Blake joined the Yankees in 2019 on a three-year contract after he replaced the club’s veteran pitching coach Larry Rothschild. Moreover, Cashman admitted he knew bringing in Matt would be a gamble, but it played out perfectly for them. Now, Matt Blake is back with the Yankees after he renewed his contract for another three years.
Matt Blake’s inclusion in 2019 was considered a risky move by the Yankees as they fired their veteran pitching coach for a 35-year-old. However, Matt proved everyone wrong and was an instant hit. The Yankee’s ERA in Matt’s inaugural season was 4.35, the highest since 2007. Moreover, he entered into the good books of the pitchers who praised him heavily. Yankee Manager Aaron Boone, too, heaped praises on the 37-year-old and applauded his knowledge and content.
