New York Yankees discuss contracts in Tampa Bay
New York Yankees general manager Brian Cashman and co-owners Hal and Hank Steinbrenner began a series of meetings on Monday 1 November, which will decide what direction the club head in next year.
The three men are expected to meet for two days. However, many are saying that the talks are likely to go longer, as they have several difficult contracts to discuss.
The Yankees are at a crossroad, as they must decide whether or not to keep long-time club veterans or move towards the free agent market and a younger squad.
Perhaps the most pressing question is whether or not to re-sign team captain Derek Jeter. The shortstop is coming off a 10-year contract, which saw him earn $189 million. However, the veteran had an off year in 2010 and many believe he has already played
his best baseball. Nevertheless, it is likely the New Jersey native will still demand a substantial salary. If Jeter turns in another season like he did in 2010, in which he only batted .270, hit 10 home runs and tallied 67 RBIs it will be hard for New York
to justify an all-star wage.
Moreover, Alex Rodriguez’s 10-year contract worth up to $300 million remains on the books until the end of the 2017 season, making the Yankees a bit more frugal when considering the rest of their infield.
In addition, the club has to make a decision regarding closer Mariano Rivera, who earned $15 million in 2010 and is expected to get a raise in time for next season. However, Rivera is 40 years old and is likely expecting a multi-year deal.
The Yankees rotation also has several question marks, as the club is thought to be looking at signing current Texas Rangers ace Cliff Lee, who becomes a free agent at the end of the World Series.
The Yankees have plenty of decisions to make, as they decide whether they are willing to spend more than last year’s $210 million in salaries.
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