The New York Yankees face pressing decisions about their starting rotation as the off-season nears. With Luis Severino and Frankie Montas set to become free agents after the 2023 season, and the probable release of Domingo German due to another alcohol-related incident, there’s much to ponder for the Yankees’ front office.
General Manager Brian Cashman certainly possesses both the financial muscle and the acumen to snag another top-tier pitcher. But diving into a bidding frenzy for a sensation like Yoshinobu Yamamoto might not be on his agenda. Instead, a more economical strategy might be in the offing, possibly leading to a reunion with Montas, who barely touched the mound for the Yankees this year.
Montas: A Risk Worth Taking for the Yankees?
The Yankees’ acquisition of Montas from the Oakland Athletics was marred by a shoulder injury he carried along. After being side-lined during the postseason and subsequent surgery that cut short his 2023 campaign, Montas’ stint with the Bombers appeared ill-fated. The right-hander, however, had posted an impressive 3.18 ERA over 104.2 innings with Oakland. Now, the Yankees stand at a crossroads: Offer Montas a one-year lifeline or redirect the $7.5 million luxury tax salary elsewhere.
- Yankees have multiple updates on injured players who could be nearing a return
- Yankees’ ace scheduled to begin throwing off of a mound tomorrow
- Yankees have a new pitching prospect emerging in first pro season
Given the somewhat sparse market for starting pitchers, if the Yanks are hesitant about vying for Yamamoto, then Montas might be their best budget-friendly option. They still boast of established names like Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodon, Nestor Cortés, Clarke Schmidt, and Michael King in their ranks. Moreover, there’s palpable excitement about Drew Thorpe, a young arm who recently showcased his prowess at Double-A, recording a stellar 1.48 ERA over 30.1 innings.
A Bright Future or Immediate Star Power?
While the club has intriguing prospects and seasoned players, they lack that immediate star power in their rotation. Yamamoto, a prodigious talent from overseas, encapsulates precisely what the Yankees might need. Only 25, with a commendable track record of durability, he’s the ideal fit. The only puzzle remains: Can the Yankees meet his potential price tag?