The New York Yankees took their time when it came to Aaron Judge this offseason. As they did almost nothing over the course of the offseason, it would have made sense for them to focus on an extension, but that did not prove to be the case. Instead, the Yankees finally got around to Judge over the past few days, waiting to discuss that extension until recently.
If the Yankees are going to keep Judge, it is going to cost them. Judge turned down what the team called their best offer – a seven year deal worth $30.5 million per year. He is reportedly looking for a nine year deal and more than the $30.5 million per, although it is unknown how much more he wants.
New York Yankees will have to pay dearly for Aaron Judge
The Yankees are already in a bit of a payroll crunch when it comes to future seasons. They already have over $118 million committed to the roster for 2023 with just five players signed. Another $31 million is allocated for team options for just two players – Luis Severino and Anthony Rizzo. There will not be much left over to fill out the rest of the roster considering how the Yankees have been concerned with staying under the luxury tax.
Judge is also a bit of a risk. He has appeared in over 115 games just twice in his career, although there is hope that his focus on flexibility during the past couple of offseasons has helped his durability issues.
If that is the case, Judge may well receive his desired contract on the open market. He has been excellent when he has been healthy, posting a lifetime .276/.386/.554 batting line in his 2465 plate appearances heading into Friday, hitting 158 homers. Judge has also been an excellent defensive outfielder, saving 58 runs in right.
There is also a matter of what he means to the Yankees. He is currently the face of the franchise, a player who never wants to leave the organization. Judge is a key part of their marketing and promotions. He is more than his production. That is what the Yankees will need to determine – is it worth giving him those nine years in order to keep him with the team?
The New York Yankees want to keep Aaron Judge and he wants to stay with the Yankees. However, they will have to pay dearly for his services.