Insider says Yankees didn’t flinch, ‘called Cole’s bluff’ in negotiations
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Follow UsThe New York Yankees ace Gerrit Cole opted out of his contract on Sunday, exercising a clause in his $324 million deal signed in 2019. The opt-out provided Cole an opportunity to test free agency, though the Yankees had the option to nullify this move by adding an additional year to the contract at an annual value of $36 million.
MLB insider on Yankees contract move
Despite expectations within the league, the Yankees decided not to add a fifth year to Cole’s contract. According to MLB insider Buster Olney, the Yankees took a calculated approach, declining to extend Cole’s deal while refraining from making a public stance on the matter. Olney noted that “the Yankees called the bluff in the Gerrit Cole talks, contrary to industry and media expectations.”
Cole, 34, maintained an elite level of performance throughout the 2024 season, finishing with a 3.41 ERA and a standout 2.17 ERA in the postseason. During the World Series, he allowed only one earned run across 12.2 innings. However, his season was also marked by some elbow issues, which may have influenced the Yankees’ decision not to extend his contract.
With four years and $144 million remaining on his deal, Cole and his agent, Scott Boras, now face a decision regarding his future in New York. The Yankees have left the door open for Cole to return under the original terms, though without the additional year he reportedly sought. Sources close to the negotiations indicate that the team offered a return on the previous terms as a way to maintain positive relations with Boras, who also represents Juan Soto, a player the Yankees are reportedly interested in acquiring.
While no future extension has been confirmed, Yankees General Manager Brian Cashman is believed to be open to discussing further possibilities for Cole’s contract in the future.
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