MLB Rumors: Yankees Back in Blake Snell Sweepstakes? Corbin Burnes Trade Revives Faltering Pitching Market

The Baltimore Orioles shocked the world by announcing the trade for Corbin Burnes. The unexpected nature and the sheer suddenness of the move left most fans scrambling. The fact of the matter is – Burnes’ trade to the O’s has changed the complexion of the AL East Division and this is something that should worry the New York Yankees. 

The quality that the O’s possess is undeniable. With a 101-win season in 2023, they are standing on equal grounds with much richer competitors in the division. The Yankees have strengthened their team immensely this offseason but the O’s act could potentially push them towards making additional signings. What is that rushing over to the Yankee Stadium? Oh! It’s Blake Snell’s sweepstakes.

Could shock lead to a union? 

Ever since Blake Snell rejected the Yankees’ offer, their relationship has remained a bit tense. Instead of pushing for a deal, the Bronx Bombers went on to sign Marcus Stroman. Things were looking pretty dull in this link despite mixed signals from insiders but sometimes a little spark can set off a fire – what if the O’s trade for Corbin Burnes is that spark? 

FanSided talked about how The Birds’ high flight may force the Bombers to aim for greatness as well. The writer called the AL East a pitching powerhouse, emphasizing the need for the Yankees to make a big splash to stay ahead of the surging Orioles. “That drastic move could (and probably should) involve the best free-agent starter left, Blake Snell.” Could it actually happen?

The signals have been mixed. Some have said that they don’t see the Bombers going back, while others are of the opinion that it’s all about the right price. One could say the former is possible, but ‘never say never’ in baseball.

There’s no doubt that the Yankees would be a better team with Snell in it, but a $240 million-plus contract looks too big even for the Pinstripes. But the absence of Burnes has reduced the market of options and that could help Snell.

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But in this case, lowering the price could help Snell, but as of now, that’s a wild speculation. Especially as the competition for the ace is still intense. 

New York Yankees, Blake Snell, and competition in between 

Despite there not being much visible interest in Snell, it could increase if the price drops. The Los Angeles Angels and the San Francisco Giants are quite interested in the ace. The team operates with a smaller budget compared to the Yankees, evident in their player salaries. So it could give them an advantage during the Snell saga. It’s something that the Bombers will have to contend with. 

Still, these are mere speculations. One doesn’t know what the outcome would be as Snell’s free agency has only surprised till now. While things can always go back to normal, it just feels like the surprises aren’t over in this story yet.

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