The New York Yankees, perennial contenders with high postseason aspirations, have a keen focus on shoring up their pitching staff. In recent seasons, injuries and inconsistencies among starting pitchers have highlighted the need for reliable arms. Thus, a significant addition is required to close the gap.
Meanwhile, the Yankees have remained linked to several top-tier pitching talents this off-season. However, from pitcher’s resentment to adverse financial implications, several factors have resulted in fallouts. Having said that, with six for spring training, the franchise has emerged as a top landing spot for a defending CY Young award pitcher.
Blake Snell Likely Yankees’ Top Priority This Off-Season!
In the swirling offseason rumors and speculations, the New York Yankees have emerged as a potential landing spot for the defending American League Cy Young Award winner, Blake Snell. The two-time CY Young winner is a free agent and seeks a groundbreaking deal. While Snell managed to garner intense buzz, the Bronx Bombers seem to have extended their interest. Several analysts seem to be a misfit in the Yanks lineup due to his lack of reliability and durability. However, ace Gerrit Cole and Aaron Judge are fully on board with the idea of having two defending CY Young Awardees in a rotation. Thus, the Yanks are expected to pursue Blake Snell regardless of the hesitation. Will Leitch of MLB.com says that New York is the second likeliest destination for the 2023 NL Cy Young Award winner.
However, Blake Snell’s alleged acquisition will have extraordinary implications on the Yankee’s payroll for the impending season. The pitcher seems unlikely to settle for anything less than a $150 million contract. Moreover, concerns over his durability and inconsistency are also something the team needs to review before taking a plunge. But at the same time, the Yanks’ remain out of options. The top brass’s first choice was Jordan Montgomery. But the past mistakes and scars are back to haunt to the team management this off-season. The latest is that Montgomery, indeed, holds a grudge. Thus, a reunion is not on the cards at the moment. Thus, the Bronx Bombers probably will have to fall back on Snell while trying to negotiate terms. In no world would the Yanks pay Snell $30 million a year after rejecting Yoshinobu Yamamoto an extra $25 million.
Mets Continue To Steal Ex-Yankee Players!
Meanwhile, several players ousted by the New York Yankees this off-season are finding a home across the subway. After acquiring Luis Severino and Harrison Bader, the team has apparently connected with fireballer Wandy Peralta. The relief pitcher remained the Yanks key reliever last season and pitched a record number of innings.
However, the Yankees failed to offer an extension, and subsequently, Wandy Peralta entered free agency. And now, the New York Mets have expressed interest in signing the relief pitcher for the upcoming MLB season. Having said that, the Mets’ approach this off-season has raised many eyebrows. They seem to be picking pieces left out by the Bronx Bombers. Moreover, the fans seem clearly pissed with the approach and want Steve Cohen to make a big signing.
