Yankees News: Cashman opens up about massive Aaron Judge contract extension, potential Gardner return

One of the reasons the New York Yankees have been quiet this off-season is the impending mega-deal for slugger Aaron Judge. The 29-year-old talent is entering his sixth season in the MLB, coming off one of his best years, hitting .287 with 39 homers and 98 RBIs.

Judge recorded a career-low 25% strikeout rate, showcasing elite offensive capabilities with consistent defensive qualities. Considering the Yankees have already carved out a section for him in their stadium, a big deal was always in the works, but with just one year of service time left before he hits free agency, they want to lock him up sooner rather than later.

According to MLB Network’s Bryan Hoch, the Yankees are gearing up to offer Aaron Judge a massive deal before Opening Day:

Brian Cashman confirms that the Yankees will make an extension offer to Aaron Judge before Opening Day. He would not say if that has already happened.

There is potential for Judge to land a deal as one of the highest-paid outfielders in the game. He would likely fall below Mike Trout, Mookie Betts, Bryce Harper, and teammate Giancarlo Stanton, but the deal would still be significant.

The Yankees are still paying Zack Britton, Aroldis Chapman, and a bevy of aging players. They are counting their pennies and trying to stop themselves from going over the third luxury tax threshold this season. Clearly, they believe they can win with the roster at hand, and given the luxurious names littered across the unit, it’s hard to disagree.

Nonetheless, the team still needs to make a few moves with cost efficiency in mind, which suggests a trade could be in the works before Opening Day.

Here’s a quick Brett Gardner update:

Brian Cashman has been in contact with Brett Gardner’s agent, but, “right now we’re focused on what we have in camp, to be honest.”