Five weeks prior to spring training, the New York Yankees leadership gathered in Tampa.  This summit intrigued the baseball world. The Yankees GM Brian Cashman, Manager Aaron Boone, and the coaching workforce fueled speculation about an imminent pitching move. A rather major one. Amid hushed back and forths about Blake Snell is there news on the way? 

There is no doubt that the Yankees are smitten by the Cy Young winner. But his agent Scott Boras’ hefty price quote raises concerns. While signing Snell would bolster their rotation, his market value (likely) exceeding Carlos Rodon’s $162 million might dig a hole in Hal Steinbrenner’s pocket. 

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The market is getting more and more limited by the day. Every passing day the pressure on Cashman increased to make a crucial decision. Either pay Boras’ premium for the 31-year-old ace or look for other viable options. However, the meet-up at Tampa clearly points to their interest in a star-pitcher, ‘Snellzilla’ maybe? That said, it is worth looking at this situation through another lens. 

How about, making Dylan Cease an offer that protects top prospects Jones and Hampton? Yes, Cease too tickled the Yankees’ interest, but there is no conclusion on that. Yet another option, otherwise, is that they settle for less impactful options like Mike Clevinger or Michael Lorenzen. With that comes a quick reminder : The clock is ticking. It appears that the Yankees won’t wait for long though. 

The Yanks have reportedly established that they want Snell and would not mind accepting Cease. But they must navigate through the financial hurdles in either case. The coming days will most likely reveal if the Yankees brass can acquire an upgrade-pitcher. One can only hope that their options remain within reach till then. The crucial pitcher chase is drawing to a conclusion perhaps! 

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Alternatives for the New York Yankees Is Blake Snell Slips Away

Deep diving further into this discussion other options come to light. Of course, there are other, not-so-expensive options too. Not ruling out Cashman’s preference, he might want the familiarity of Jordan Montgomery. But, let’s not forget that the southpaw has displayed a desire to continue with the Texas Rangers. Particularly after the World Series win, a reunion with NYY is quite improbable. Another option is the acquisition of Corbin Burnes. But the Milwaukee Brewers are slightly reluctant to trade him before July. 

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The outcome of the Tampa summit is still a mystery, but the prospects seem exciting. While it is established that the Yankees’ desire Snell and Cease, the challenges stare directly at New York’s face. This is a classic example of a tug of war between making a careful strategic move and time.