
Today is the day the New York Yankees are expected to unload a record-smashing contract for star pitcher Gerrit Cole, and they learned his family his more than happy to come to the big city if he elects to take his talents to the Bronx.
Naturally, it’s fair to be cautious about such a massive deal, considering the Nationals paid Stephen Strasburg a hefty amount — seven-years, $245 million. The Cole deal will have to break $300 million in stature, and it could even reach $325 million at the end of the day, depending on how many years the Bombers sign him for.
Owner Hal Steinbrenner has given GM Brian Cashman the green light to secure Cole at all costs, but the number of zeroes required to write out the amount they will offer Cole might not fit on the blank check he left, so kindly for Cashman to utilize.
However, here are the latest New York Yankees rumors of the day:
Jon Heyman:Â Yankees GM Brian Cashman is indeed coming with the offer for Cole today. Angels seem highly motivated but will need to convince Cole they can win with very top heavy roster. Dodgers also seen as threat (though they could go the Rendon route instead)
Joel Sherman: Cole’s final payday is now expected to exceed $300 million — and not by a penny or two. Nine years at $324 million is $36M on avg per year and that is probably not a bad over/under. What Strasburg signed for would move me to take the over on Cole.
Jon Heyman: A couple teams are interested in Brett Gardner on a multiyear deal but Gardy, a Yankee since 2009, prefers to remain a Yankee. So still talking.
Jon Heyman: While Gregorius has multiyear opportunities it’s possible he may choose to reset his value with a 1 year deal now that he’s at full health
The Yankees would be wise to bring back Gardner on a one-year deal, especially with center fielder Aaron Hicks expected to miss 8-10 months after succumbing to Tommy John surgery. I anticipate Gardner will land a deal around $8.5 million for one more year in Pinstripes.