According to Jim Bowden, the Boston Red Sox recently made a $300 million offer to Yamamoto, matching that of the San Francisco Giants, who are also interested in signing the star RHP: This season, the Yankees have been active in bolstering their squad. They were successful in acquiring star OF Juan Soto from the San Diego Padres, as well as other moves that have strengthened their lineups.
Pairing Yamamoto with reigning AL Cy Young award winner Gerrit Cole would elevate the Yankees’ pitching staff to the top of the league, especially with many other pitchers, including Nestor Cortes Jr. and Carlos Rodon, set to return from injury in 2023.
If Yamamoto signs a $300 million contract, which the Yankees would have to offer to beat out the Giants and Red Sox, it would be one of the top ten free-agent contracts in MLB history, depending on how many years both parties agree to. Three of the biggest belong to Cole, Aaron Judge, and former Yankees MVP Alex Rodriguez, demonstrating that owner Hal Steinbrenner is not hesitant to spend big money to build a title contender.
Steinbrenner’s Sense of Urgency Will Be Put to the Test As Yamamoto Sweepstakes Intensify
Steinbrenner has been vocal about not surpassing the $300 million annual salary cap to strengthen the Yankees’ chances of winning the World Series, despite making a significant offer for a player who hasn’t proven himself in the major leagues yet. However, the Yankees’ actions in this offseason might contradict that stance when all free agency moves are completed.
Yamamoto is a highly sought-after player, and multiple teams are eager to acquire his talents. Reports suggest that Shohei Ohtani is actively involved in persuading Yamamoto to join the Los Angeles Dodgers, while Kodai Senga is playing a similar role for the New York Mets.
Both the Giants and Red Sox have a strong market presence and a history of success, providing stiff competition for the Yankees. To elevate their roster and regain dominance, the Yankees will need to outperform these teams in the market and on-field success.
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