MLB Rumors: Yankees Targeting Coveted Free Agent Starter

November 08, 2024 ,

The New York Yankees are setting their sights on left-hander Sean Manaea as a prime free-agent target to reinforce their rotation and potentially lure him away from their crosstown rivals, the New York Mets. 

After a breakout season in Queens, Manaea posted a 3.47 ERA, 1.08 WHIP, and 184 strikeouts over 181.2 innings, solidifying himself as one of the most appealing mid-rotation arms available this offseason. 

Following his strong finish with a 3.04 ERA in his last 12 starts and a series of impressive playoff outings, Manaea declined the Mets’ $21.05 million qualifying offer, signaling his intent to explore broader options in free agency. 

According to the New York Post’s Jon Heyman, the Yankees "are interested" in Manaea, eyeing him as a stabilizing force in a rotation that saw inconsistent results beyond ace Gerrit Cole.

While the Yankees are also monitoring elite arms like Corbin Burnes, Max Fried, and Blake Snell, Manaea presents a more budget-friendly alternative if they prioritize another major acquisition, such as Juan Soto. 

"The Yankees checked on the free-agent ace pitchers," Heyman reported, "but it remains uncertain whether they would do Soto and an ace pitcher, too.” 

Manaea’s more modest price tag makes him an appealing option if New York decides to allocate significant resources toward Soto while still shoring up their starting pitching. 

With Carlos Rodรณn coming off a shaky season, Manaea’s steady performance would offer valuable depth and reliability to the Yankees’ rotation.

Signing Manaea would not only strengthen the Yankees' rotation but also undercut the Mets, who are keen on retaining him after his successful season in their system. 

Both teams are aiming for deep postseason runs, and the battle for Manaea could intensify the competition for free-agent talent between the two New York clubs. 

If the Yankees succeed in bringing Manaea to the Bronx, it could mark a turning point in the Yankees-Mets rivalry, offering the Yankees a key rotation boost while leaving their rivals with a big gap to fill.

Photo Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images



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