On Wednesday morning, the Yankees and the 30-year-old superstar agreed to a record $360 million deal over nine years. The Yankees can now turn their attention to other issues.
What is the Yankees’ plan?
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Cashman stated that his front office had “lined up” a few other options “to be brought down, but there’s a lot more planes out there circling.”
Here are four options:
- Determine left field
The Yankees would “love” to reunite with Andrew Benintendi, whom they acquired from the Royals at the trade deadline in exchange for a trio of pitching prospects.
Some in the organization believe Benintendi did not enjoy living in New York City and would prefer a smaller market closer to his home in St. Louis, and that the Astros or Cardinals are the favorites to sign him.
The Yankees are also in talks with the Pirates about trading Bryan Reynolds. It’s unclear whether Pittsburgh will seriously consider trading Reynolds.
- Sign with Carlos Rodon?
Prior to the Judge deal, the Yankees were in constant contact with the left-hander about becoming a co-ace with right-hander Gerrit Cole.
According to a source familiar with the negotiations, Rodon is seeking a six-year contract worth around $30 million per season. The Yankees want to show Judge that they intend to maximize his prime years, and adding Rodon would be a good way to do so.
Rodon, 29, had a 2.88 ERA and a 14-8 record in 31 starts last season, but he has a frightening injury history, having dealt with both elbow and shoulder issues.
Related: For Carlos Rodon, the Yankees face off against NL contenders and AL East rivals
- Continue to bolster the bullpen
The Yankees signed Tommy Kahnle to a two-year, $11.5 million contract on Tuesday.
Don’t rule out a reunion with Zack Britton, who was popular in the clubhouse and whose Tommy John surgery rehab went well despite his erratic return in late September. Michael Fulmer has previously piqued the Yankees’ interest.
- Get rid of bad contracts
Expect the Yankees to try to get rid of Hicks, who will have 10-and-5 no-trade rights this season. The Yankees have spent the offseason pumping up Donaldson, who was an excellent defender last season but had his worst offensive season at the age of 36.
