The New York Yankees find themselves in a unique situation.
Despite making considerable off-season improvements, New York might not be the favorite in the American League East. Now in an even better position, the Baltimore Orioles won 101 games in the previous season.
On Thursday, Baltimore acquired former Milwaukee Brewers star Corbin Burnes in a major trade. The 29-year-old is now among the best throwers in the American League and has already won one Cy Young Award in addition to three All-Star selections.
Although it may have to react, New York is in a stronger position. Blake Snell, the two-time Cy Young Award winner, is the most well-known pitcher linked to the Yankees.
Even if a move is doubtful, it shouldn’t be completely ruled out. According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, New York made Snell an offer for a contract and was apparently even willing to make a higher one.
“The Yankees’ exact offer to Blake Snell isn’t known, but word is they were willing to go ‘above Carlos Rodón,’ which presumably means more than the $27 million per year Carlos Rodón got on his six-year Yankees deal,” stated Heyman. “Some who follow the Yankees claim they aren’t considering the starting market.
“Though the $162M Rodon deal was a measuring stick for the Yankees, it’s also believed Rodón’s rough first season in The Bronx made them less willing to go huge for Snell.”
Snell is still available, despite reports that the Yankees withdrew their offer to him. It’s obvious that New York has money to spend, so why not give Snell a go if his demands start to decrease?
Juan Soto may be able to sign a free agent contract in 2024, thus it appears that New York is throwing everything into the campaign. Why not take a big risk and start one of baseball’s top pitchers?
