The 2022 MLB season, with several ups and downs, has been like a roller coaster ride for the Yankees. After winning the American League East, the Yankees were knocked out by the Astros in the ALCS. Their campaign ended after losing all four of their encounters against the Astros. Meanwhile, several players are reaching the end of their contracts with the team. This might have been the last time we saw them in the Yankees\’ jersey. But who are they? Let\’s take a look at such players.
Aaron Judge!
Yankees slugger Aaron Judge had one of the best seasons in recent memory. He broke Babe Ruth\’s record, hitting 62 home runs in a single season. However, he is set to enter free agency as the season concludes. Lately, the Bombers offered Aaron a handsome contract of about 235 million dollars. However, Aaron Judge betted on himself and decided to become a free agent. Although, even the Yankees are keen to keeep Judge\’s services, it will not be easy as he is currently the hottest property in the MLB.
Anthony Rizzo
Additionally, the Yankees are at risk of losing their second-best home run hitter. Rizzo\’s two-year, $32 million contract with the team, which he signed in March, allows him to opt out of the final season. The 33-year-old first baseman batted .224 this season, significantly behind his career average of .265. He hit 32 home runs this season, which was a career-high, and scored 75 runs. But only time will tell if Anthony Rizzo stays with the Yankees or returns to the Cubs organization, where he is a part of championship history.
Jameson Taillon
Taillon might find himself the odd man out in the Yankees setup. This season, the 30-year-old earned $5.8 million and had a 14-5 record with a 3.91 ERA. Due to his two seasons of uninterrupted health in the Bronx, he has demonstrated his merit for a multi-year contract. Although Jameson Taillon has stated his desire to stay with the Yankees, a more attractive contract could arise from another team. That might lure the star player from the Bronx to another bullpen.
Andrew Benintendi
The addition of Andrew Benintendi at the trade deadline provided the team with a much-needed left-handed bat and a contact hitter. He looked like a rental. His services were, however, no longer required for a very long period after his season finished. The 28-year-old outfielder struggled to get off to a good start with the Bronx, batting just.254 over 33 games with two home runs and 12 RBIs. He may play for another team in the upcoming season because his contract with the Yankees is ending.
Aroldis Chapman
Aroldis Chapman has outstayed his welcome in the Bronx and is one Yankees who doesn\’t look likely to come back. With a 4.46 ERA, an $18 million salary, and the loss of his closer position early in the season, the 34-year-old bullpen pitcher experienced his worst season ever. The Bombers\’ bullpen was further depleted as a result of his absence from a required exercise and exclusion from the ALDS roster. His time with the Yankees may come to an end in that manner.