Your top New York Yankees links of the day:
Chris Cwik | Yahoo Sports: While baseball is far from being a reality in New York City, team owners and players are debating over the financial structure of what a shortened season might look like. Whether the players are forced to take a significant pay cut or earn a prorated contract, decisions must be made before baseball can return. However, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo stated that he is optimistic baseball could be played in the state. That means the Yankees and Mets could be playing home games this year, but it would likely feature no fans.
Ultimately, individual states need to determine if it is safe to host games. With the coronavirus pandemic is slowly deteriorating, taking proper precautions is the safest way to ensure the health of the players, which remains a major factor. New York is currently not allowing large gatherings, which indicates the Yankees could be playing at an alternative location for the time being. If things gradually return to normal, they could return to the Bronx within the next few months.
George A. King III | New York Post: There’s still a possibility that DJ LeMahieu might not play a single inning during the 2020 season, and that would spell the end of his contract with the Yankees. General manager Brian Cashman likely wants to retain the invaluable utility man, but it comes down to money and timing.
“I don’t know how free agency is going to go. I’m more concerned with this season,’’ LeMahieu said, via the New York Post. “Hopefully we can get out there on the field soon and play as many games as possible this season. I think it would be a huge boost for New York and our country.’’
Andres Chavez | Empire Sports Media: Giancarlo Stanton struggled to remain healthy in 2019, but that doesn’t mean he can’t bounce back with a great performance in 2020. Before joining the Yankees, Stanton was rarely injured, but something about up North has hurt his durability. He’s only two years removed from 59 home run performance with the Miami Marlins, and he’s expected to break out with the Yanks eventually, whether it be this season or next.