Despite a challenging 2024 season, in which Gerrit Cole battled injuries and saw a dip in his regular-season performance, the pitcher remained a key asset for the New York Yankees. Cole finished the season with an 8-5 record, a 3.41 ERA, and 99 strikeouts over 17 starts.
While these numbers might not have matched his usual dominance, Cole elevated his game in the postseason, helping the New York Yankees reach their first World Series since 2009. However, despite everything, the Bronx Bombers chose not to extend the ace pitcher’s contract by another year, thus forfeiting his opt-out move.
Steinbrenner Reaffirms Gerrit Cole’s Status In Yankees Future Amid Opt-Out Standoff
The New York Yankees may have opted not to extend ace pitcher Gerrit Cole’s contract through 2029, but that decision does not reflect the team’s commitment to their star pitcher. Yankee owner Hal Steinbrenner recently spoke candidly about the future of Cole in the Bronx, emphasizing that the team hopes to see their ace retire as a Yankee. While many may have expected the Yanks to add another year and $36 million to Cole’s deal, which would have voided his opt-out clause, Steinbrenner revealed that the team ultimately wasn’t in a position to make such a move. Cole’s current contract runs through 2028 and is worth $144 million.
Despite the team’s decision not to add another year, Steinbrenner insists that the Yankees’ admiration for Cole is unwavering. “Let me just say that doesn’t reflect in any way, shape, or form what we think of Gerrit. We want Gerrit to be a Yankee for life,” Steinbrenner said. Cole initially triggered the opt-out clause in his contract, which could have allowed him to become a free agent, but he ultimately chose to remain with the Yankees under his current terms. His decision to forgo entering free agency has proven to be a win for the Yanks, keeping their ace locked in and maintaining stability at the top of their pitching rotation. Retaining Cole for the foreseeable future provides stability for the pitching staff, especially as the team focuses on re-signing Juan Soto. The message is clear: the team wants Cole to be a part of their legacy, and they are willing to ensure that his tenure in New York lasts as long as possible.
Soto’s Free Agency Narrows Down To 5-6 Teams
As Juan Soto’s free agency heats up, the race for his services seems to be narrowing down to a select group of teams. According to Jon Heyman, the competition for Soto could be down to just five or six teams: the New York Mets, New York Yankees, Toronto Blue Jays, Boston Red Sox, Los Angeles Dodgers, and potentially the Philadelphia Phillies.
Soto’s recent meeting with Yankees owner Hal Steinbrenner has reportedly left the slugger feeling more positive about the Yankees. Despite the Yanks’ strong interest, sources close to the situation suggest that Soto is likely to make his decision based on the best financial offer, with the Mets being positioned as one of the top contenders for his signature.
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