New York Yankees setting fans up for Aaron Judge disappointment

The New York Yankees may have already missed their chance to keep Aaron Judge for the long term.

They had already made an offer – seven years at $213.5 million. However, Judge turned that offer down, banking on a strong final season in New York before testing free agency. As he has posted an incredible 204 OPS+ with 54 homers in his 577 plate appearances entering Wednesday, singlehandedly carrying the Yankees lineup as he is in the midst of what could be an MVP season.

New York Yankees “competitive” claim on Aaron Judge a joke

His performance also means that the Yankees will need to drastically increase their offer. It is something that the Yankees are aware of, as team president Randy Levine noted that they “know his worth and what he means” to the organization. However, that statement was also tempered by his follow up comment that he “think [the Yankees will] be extraordinarily competitive” does not invoke confidence.

Instead, it sounds like the sort of statement that sets up an excuse. Should Judge sign elsewhere for an impressive contract, they can claim to have given him a “competitive offer” without disclosing any details. It gives them a way to cover themselves should Judge leave New York for a larger account balance.

Both sides are saying the right things. The Yankees are saying that they want him around for the long term and that they value his contributions to the lineup. Judge, for his part, is saying that he wants to stay in pinstripes for his entire career. An extension, or a new contract, should come together.

But money talks. Those words can only go so far as loyalty is a two way street. If the Yankees truly value Judge as much as they claim, they are going to have to prove it. And that will result in a much larger contract than their previous offer.

The New York Yankees claim they will be “competitive” for Aaron Judge this offseason. That is just code to prepare fans for disappointment.