Ever since the New York Yankees signed Marcus Stroman, there have been doubts over their interest in Blake Snell. After the Cy Young winner rejected their offer, the Pinstripes were quick to pivot to another pitcher. Was it the Yankees pouncing on an opportunity or was it them losing their interest in Blake Snell?

The extremely high demands of Snell have shocked the league. While he is one of the most successful pitchers in recent times, the patchiness of his performances has always raised doubts. With many suitors exiting his sweepstakes, could a reduction in his expectations bring some of them back?

The fragile connection of the New York Yankees and Blake Snell

Days before the Yankees signed Marcus Stroman, reports emerged that not only were they interested in Snell but had also made him an offer. The 5 years $150 million offer by the Pinstripes was rejected by the ace. It was reported that Snell wanted either one more year or more money. Now USA Today’s Bob Nightengale has reported that Snell is seeking a $240 million contract. 

$240 million is $90 million more than what the Yankees offered. One could’ve guessed that the Yankees would return but the situation has changed since then. The Pinstripes pursued Snell because they were lacking in starting pitchers but now they’ve filled that gap and in a rather cheap way. While Snell demands a $240 million contract, they’ve signed Stroman to a 2-year $37 million deal.

So are the Yankees really out of the Blake Snell business? One cannot be too sure about it, especially as the Gerrit Cole and Snell one-two punch looks delicious. But there is a reality that fans need to remember – the Yankees’ payroll. According to Roster Resource, the team currently sits at $294 million – the second highest in the league. They are dangerously close to the $297 million tax threshold, something that doesn’t bode well for this Snell connection.

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There are other reasons for doubts as well, like the impending Juan Soto free agency in which the Yankees are expected to go all in. But what if Snell reduces some of his expectations?

Could lower expectations do the trick? 

Currently, the free agency of Snell looks a little bland. Teams like the Los Angeles Angels and Philadelphia Phillies have reportedly stepped away from him. With a limited number of suitors left, will Scott Boras take an unprecedented step to lower his client’s asking price? If he does there are teams like the Toronto Blue Jays waiting in the wings.

The Yankees too could return to the negotiation table. Even though Snell is a streaky player, his quality is undeniable. With the Pinstripes going on a win-now mode in 2024, the addition of a trustworthy pitcher like Snell will only improve their chances. So at least for now, the hope isn’t dead.

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