The New York Yankees have set the stage for an intriguing offseason, balancing high-stakes contract negotiations and looming decisions about key personnel. While fans are focused on the pursuit of superstar Juan Soto, team owner Hal Steinbrenner has hinted at the possibility of extending the contracts of two other pivotal figures.
Manager Aaron Boone was availed club option for 2025 season. On the other hand, ace pitcher Gerrit Cole opted out of his contract before New York Yankees persuaded him to remain on his existing deal, thus avoiding adding an extra year. However, Hal Steinbrenner is not yet done with Aaron Boone and Gerrit Cole.
Aaron Boone, Gerrit Cole In Yankees Long-Term Plans
New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone and CY Young ace pitcher Gerrit Cole are returning for the 2025 season. Boone’s one-year contract option was exercised despite criticism surrounding his postseason decision-making and the Yanks’ defensive lapses during their World Series run. Meanwhile, Cole, who briefly opted out of his contract, renegotiated a new four-year, $144 million deal to remain the franchise’s ace. Meanwhile, speaking to The New York Daily News, Steinbrenner noted that extensions for both Boone and Cole are not imminent but left the door open for negotiations. This news has sparked discussions about the long-term future of the Bombers leadership and pitching staff. That being said, Boone’s tenure has been marked by both success and scrutiny.
Leading the team to the World Series in 2024 solidified his credentials, but his postseason management raised questions. Defensive and base-running errors during the Fall Classic, coupled with questionable tactical decisions, fueled criticism from fans and analysts alike. Despite these concerns, the New York Yankees opted for continuity, exercising Boone’s 2025 option. Steinbrenner’s openness to an extension suggests confidence in Boone’s ability to adapt and address fundamental issues that plagued the team. However, the decision to offer him a long-term contract will likely hinge on his performance in the upcoming season. If Boone struggles to guide the team to another deep playoff run, or if a more promising managerial candidate emerges, the team may reconsider its commitment. For Boone, an extension would signify trust in his ability to rectify the Yanks’ weaknesses and lead the team in an unforgiving New York market.
What An Extension Means For Gerrit Cole?
For Gerrit Cole, the case for an extension seems stronger. The 34-year-old right-hander remains one of MLB’s elite pitchers. A Cy Young winner in 2023, Cole has anchored the Yankees’ rotation and demonstrated resilience despite dealing with an elbow injury in 2024. His consistency and leadership have made him indispensable to the team’s success.
While Cole’s age and recent injury history raise concerns about long-term durability, an extension could provide stability for both sides. A deal that balances a longer tenure with a lower annual average value (AAV) might be mutually beneficial. For the Yankees, retaining Cole beyond his current four-year contract ensures they have a dependable ace as they transition younger arms into the rotation.
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