Acquiring Japanese ace Yoshinobu Yamamoto will come with its own set of challenges for the New York Yankees. The competition has not been seen in a long time as teams have thronged his agency’s office with repetitive calls. While monetary, the Yanks stand strong, Yamamoto’s unusual demand of playing alongside his comrades could act as a roadblock.
Nonetheless, god forbids if Yoshinobu Yamamoto’s deal falls apart, the Yankees need to sort of back up options. Recently, Jon Heyman of the New York Post linked Jordan Montgomery and Frankie Montas as plausible candidates. However, another viable option is entering free agency, which seems a much cheaper yet effective alternative to strengthen the starting rotation.
Starter Lucas Giolito Perfect Low-Cost Fit In Yankees Pitching Rotation!
The New York Yankees are on the lookout for top-tier pitching talent to bolster their starting rotation for the 2024 MLB season. Many big names have made it to the list. But the luxury tax threat is looming over Hal Steinbrenner’s shoulders. Thus, the front office must also seek cheaper alternatives as well. A perfect fit could be Cleveland Guardians starter Lucas Giolito. The right-handed pitcher’s most notable strength is his fastball, which consistently reaches mid to high 90s mph. He spent most of his time with the White Sox, wherein he posted a 4.20 average ERA across seven seasons. However, he switched four teams in 2023 alone, which messed with his rhythm and consistency.
Despite the rollercoaster side, Lucas Giolito finished the season with a 4.88 ERA across 33 starts. Notably, he managed to stay healthy throughout the year. Additionally, his playoff experience with the White Sox has showcased his composure and ability to deliver in crucial moments. Having said that, the pitcher is set to enter free agency this off-season, and FanGraphs projected a deal of two to three years for $30 to 40 million for Giolito. Sounds reasonable for a pitcher with decent numbers. If compared with Frankie Montas, Lucas remains a much better option for the desperate New York Yankees. Ultimately, for the Bronx Bombers, who play in a competitive AL East division, having a reliable starter like Giolito could make a significant difference in their quest for a comeback in 2024.
Yanks Seeking Multiple Reunions This Off-Season!
Speaking of the pitching rotation, the New York Yankees are apparently eyeing a reunion with two starters, Jordan Montgomery and Frankie Montas. Jon Heyman of New York Post confirmed the same. Montgomery is coming off a championship run with the Texas Rangers, whereas Montas is healthy again. However, whether the duo will sustain in the Bronx going forward remains a burning question.
Jordan Montgomery spent more than half of his career in the Bronx before the Yankees traded him to the Cardinals in 2022. He thrived after the change of scenery and achieved success in the postseason as well. On the other hand, Montas, who spent most of his Yankee tenure on IL, made a miraculous comeback during the final series of the regular season. Despite health concerns, the Bombers view him as an asset which is a piece of unfathomable news to the fans.