There is an increasing belief that the Dodgers will make a run at AL MVP winner Aaron Judge, reports Jon Heyman of the New York Post. Heyman notes that the Dodgers have freed up $100MM, with Cody Bellinger, Craig Kimbrel, Tyler Anderson, Andrew Heaney, David Price, Trea Turner, and Justin Turner no longer on the roster, and that the Dodgers have an outfield gap to fill. Justin Terranova of the New York Post adds that the Dodgers were previously viewed as being on the outskirts of the Aaron Judge sweepstakes, with the Giants posing the biggest threat in his return to the Bronx. The Yankees have already sent the superstar’s camp a new offer, but Terranova notes that the Giants have “indicated that they were willing to break the bank for Judge’s services.”
There has been speculation that Judge, who grew up outside of San Francisco, might be inclined to play closer to home, with Randy Miller of NJ.com noting that the star spends “parts of his offseasons in Linden” but resides in Tampa. For his part, Judge has played coy when asked about his free agency, telling reporters after he won the AL MVP that he is “looking forward to getting the free-agent process going,” but noting that “a lot of stuff doesn’t kick in until the winter meetings in December,” per Terranova.
Elsewhere in the League:
- White Sox pitching coach Ethan Katz has indicated that his team “need[s] another starter” with Johnny Cueto entering free agency, according to Tim Stebbins of NBC Sports Chicago. Katz adds that Chicago has discussed bringing back Cueto, and it was previously reported that Cueto is open to a return to the team. Inked to a minor league contract in early April, Cueto joined Chicago in late May and posted one of his strongest seasons over the past five years. The 36-year-old worked to a 3.35 ERA in 158 1/3 innings, albeit with a career-low 15.7% strikeout rate and a strong 5.1% walk rate. As noted in MLBTR’s 2022-23 Free Agent Starters article, Cueto’s age, lack of missed bats, and 91 MPH fastball likely won’t earn him a huge deal, but he will almost surely earn a guaranteed rotation spot entering the 2023 season.
- On the heels of a successful season in Boston, Matt Strahm is in search of an opportunity to start on the free agent market, per Alex Speier of the Boston Globe. However, Speier notes the seven-year veteran has only discussed bullpen opportunities so far this offseason. Strahm last started during the 2019 season, before transitioning to a bullpen role with the Padres in July of that season. Following a slow recovery from a 2020 patellar tendon surgery on his right knee, he was DFA’d after the 2021 season and subsequently picked up by the Red Sox on a one-year, $3MM deal. Despite being limited to only 27 1/3 innings across the 2020-2021 seasons, Strahm played an integral role in Boston’s pen in 2022, pitching to a 3.83 ERA in 44 2/3 innings and earning four saves. Importantly, after two years of sub-20% strikeout rates, Strahm punched out an above-average 26.9% of opposing batters while walking a solid 8.8%.
Gwynning's Anal Lover
Where are Judge the Pirates articles?
For Love of the Game
…and then you woke up.
CaptainJudge99
Not goin’ to LA. Smh
Shrutefarm
I hope not.
CaptainJudge99
Not goin’ to the Red Sox either.
fitted54
Red Sox need more than Judge
OhioDodger
Red Sox need a judge and half a jury.
rememberthecoop
haha
rememberthecoop
So, basically, you’re saying he is staying. Correct? I agree 100% (and not a Yankees fan).
Dumpster Divin Theo
2 for 1. Hopefully Hahn reads this piece then picks up both Cueto and Strahm the long hair baseball card collector in one fell swoop. Boom done.
Pads Fans
Pick up Clevinger too.
Fever Pitch Guy
He rushed so much to get first post that his one sentence didn’t make any sense … but he got first post, that’s all that matters!
Pete'sView
Plus,you know what he meant. He just missed “the.’
FormerDraftPick
@FeverPitchGuy You should be the last to criticize. Didn’t everyone on this site have to deal with your “Thoughts and Prayers” response to every single article for two years straight? God even asked you to stop praying.
Gwynning's Anal Lover
@Ghost of ass pirates
Ouch. I just had a bit more sympathy and ignored him.
Fever Pitch Guy
ass – I have never rushed to be first post, or posted embarrassingly crap sentences that seem like a 6-year-old wrote it.
Nobody had to “deal” with anything, everyone has the choice to either ignore my posts or mute me. Free will, dude.
It wasn’t two years, it was one season.
It wasn’t every single article, it was only the articles about injuries/illness/death.
I stopped because people appreciated it so much that they would get upset when I missed some articles. It became too time consuming, and I didn’t want to disappoint anyone.
TL;DR – That’s a clown post, bro. If you’re gonna come at me, do better.
Fever Pitch Guy
former – That’s exactly what adults do when they don’t care for a certain poster. Ass is just a regurgitated handle for one of the juveniles that resents my belief in prayer. I have a ton of sympathy for him.
GreenMonsta
Judge has a better chance of joining the Somalian Pirates than the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Unclemike1525
5 bucks on the Somalians!
Dumpster Divin Theo
“I’m the captain now” – why Jeter quit the Marlins. Those Pirates
Gwynning's Anal Lover
@Croagnut. Omg! I love this comment! Lol.
Longtimecoming
I think I saw him in Orlando as one of the Pirates of the Caribbean!
Dumpster Divin Theo
Did Orlando Bloom?
rememberthecoop
This is gold.
DonOsbourne
I heard Ben Cherington challenged JJ Picollo to a duel for the right to sign Aaron Judge.
troutfishing
Judge and O’Neil bash brothers 2023!
Hello, Newman
“Just be thankful, the Pirates aren’t in the chase.” Says sanity.
bigjonliljon
That’s tomorrow
King Floch
>“elsewhere in the National League…”
>story about the White Sox
Hmmm…
TheStevilEmpire1
Christian Vasquez is seemingly the most logical fit for the Cardinals when considering their defensive philosophy.
However, another article I saw says talks between St.Louis and Willson Contreras are underway. It’s going to be interesting how this plays out.
baseballpun
I think I’d rather they trade for a catcher, preferably Murphy, than sign either. I think Gorman is expendable and could still headline a trade.
I can see the upside for both Contreras and Vasquez though.
DonOsbourne
I’m with you pun. I think the Contreras rumors are fluff. Vasquez is a fine option, but Mo loves big trades. I agree Gorman is expendable. I guess it depends on how you feel about Herrera. I thought he looked hopelessly overmatched at the plate in his brief time last season.
SAM’s
Maybe Murphy, flexen, and a few more pieces for Edman
rememberthecoop
They’re not tradi g Edman.
TheStevilEmpire1
I’m actually in favor of Vasquez before Contreras. That’s why when Heyman came out stating the connection I found it peculiar.
Fever Pitch Guy
TheStev – I didn’t realize the Cardinals defensive philosophy involved catchers that can’t call a decent game and can’t focus enough to avoid mental errors.
Interesting, very interesting.
rememberthecoop
If you’re talking about Wlie I disagree. He has improved a lot and has matured. Only reason he has a poor defensive reputation is he’s not good at framing.
Simm
I dont buy judge to the dodgers. This sounds like boras using Heyman as his mouth piece.
Yankee Clipper
Agreed. Btw, what is an “increasing belief?” Is it now two people instead of one? A poll of fans? Writers in his office perhaps? Boras’ intuition? The only Heyman trick remaining is the vaunted Mystery Team…
Mystery Team
You called? Well we’re not interested there’s just not enough money for Judge here.
Simm
While it sounds like the dodgers want to stay under the tax this year and have a youth movement. Let’s not act like the dodgers don’t have the money. They literally print money and could have a yearly payroll of 500m and still be profitable
Yankee Clipper
That’s absolutely true, and oddly enough, it comes a couple days after the Yankees made their formal offer to Judge. Screams of Boras milking as much money as possible out of the team before signing.
Joe says...
Only thing is Boras isn’t Judge’s agent. But your sentiment is correct.
Yankee Clipper
This is true, it’s Matranga, or something like that. I have no idea why I was thinking Boras. Probably because of Heyman printing….well, anything. Good catch, JoeSays.
BlueSkies_LA
They literally print money? Wouldn’t that be, like, forgery?
richardc
@Mystery Team
Lol haha…Good stuff
taran7
They do not LITERALLY print money. That would be a federal crime.
User 401527550
They have a ton of money coming off the books. I would favor the Dodgers to get Judge.
ham77
The Dodgers are too smart to make a move like that.
User 401527550
They make a move like that every year.
YankeesBleacherCreature
Betts? Freeman?
ham77
Those contracts will age way better than a Judge contract.
YankeesBleacherCreature
Must be true then.
User 401527550
Betts contract will not age better.
dirkg
What does Scott Boras have to do with Aaron Judge? Page Odle is Judges agent.
Yankee Clipper
Yeah, you are right, as JoeSays already pointed out above. It has more to do with Heyman’s reporting on any FA, and him being Boras’ mouthpiece, usually.
My apologies to Scott Boras for maiming his reputation….
Balk
I don’t doubt a bit that the Dodgers, Yankees, or Giants have the money to sign Judge, it’s going to boil down to where Judge wants to play. The money isn’t going to be a problem. I don’t think there’s going to be squeezing any drops out, if all clubs are close, it’s going to be up to Judge and fine details to the contract. Imo
Big whiffa
@balk. So you’re saying he’s going to be a dodger….I do not disagree w that logic
Balk
Well, if he chooses to play for the Dodgers sure, but he can also choose to stay in New York, or go home to the bay. If I had to place a bet, I would put New York first, the bay second, Dodgers third, only reason for that is he may want to come home over play for a rival as a kid.
Balk
Dodgers are a lot closer to his home then New York though so like I said, it’s going to be up to where HE wants to play, not about the money, the money will be there from any of those teams
Big whiffa
Wow I had no clue he was from the bay. I’m assuming he wants a career after baseball- if so, that would mean LA, but I’ll move Giants ahead of Yankees since that’s where he’s from
Mad Hatter
We’ll see what the union has to say about that.
Big whiffa
Ught oh, Yankee fans in denial. Love it ! Since he hasn’t resigned – LA has to be the favorite for his services at this point. It’s a pro athletes dream location.
Judge to dodgers is worth a future wager
Pete'sView
Is it really a “pro athlete’s dream?” I wouldn’t be so sure of that. For instance, it appears Trea Turner would like to get away from there. LA isn’t for everyone.
Rsox
The Dodgers “freed up $100 million”. 7 players becoming free agents isn’t really freeing up money, especially since they have to replace at least 4 of them with external options
Pads Fans
2 players were non-tendered. Justin Turner and Bellinger. That was $ 36 million.
BlueSkies_LA
Turner wasn’t non-tendered, the team declined to pick up his option for next year. But Edwin Rios and Luke Williams in addition to Bellinger actually were non-tendered, so that’s three. The point that the Dodgers really didn’t “free up” money that will mostly have to be applied to hiring other players to replace them is a good one.
Pads Fans
The Dodgers absolutely freed up money. If a player is non-tendered, it money not being spent. If an option is not picked up then money is not being spent.
So FOUR players out of 7 were not free agents.
Out of the 7 players coming off the Dodgers payroll, only 3 were starters. Two of those, Justin Turner and Bellinger cleared $36 million in payroll space and their positions and production can be filled for much less money than $36 million.
The only one that will cost a substantial amount to replace is Trea Turner if the Dodgers decide they need Correa, Bogaerts, or Swanson. But the Dodgers have already said they will move Lux to SS if they sign Judge and move Betts to 2B.
So if they sign Judge, the subject of this thread, no additional money needs to be spent on SS. Its handled internally.
Much less $$$ to fill 1 OF position and 3B and nothing to fill SS. The rest are easy to fill spots that won’t cost much.
Bottom line is the Dodgers DID free up money. Huge stacks of it. Whether that is to make a run at Judge or to dip under the $233 million CBT threshold is yet to be seen.
BlueSkies_LA
And here I was agreeing with your original point that the Dodgers didn’t really free up much salary if the production they are losing has to be added back through free agent hirings, quite possibly at more than they paid for it last season, especially in the starting pitching department. They’re going to need at least two of them, and it’s impossible to replace the production of Anderson for even twice as much he was paid last year. Also, it might not be useful think of it as freed-up money since we have no idea how much the Dodgers are budgeting for payroll this year. It’s easy to get cheaper but very hard to get cheaper and better.
Salvi
Turner, Bellinger, Anderson, Heaney, Kimbrel, Price, Gallo, Hudson, Kahnle. — Are all gone.
IMO: Most of these players contributed in some way. I dont understand how that doesn’t add up to more than “3 starters”. Seems like a word salad to downplay what they are losing.
BlueSkies_LA
According to this site, the Dodgers picked up Hudson’s option for 2023 in September and extended him through 2024, though I don’t remembering hearing anything official from the team.
machurucuto
The news should say that Heyman believes that the Dodgers are interested in Judge.
Sox Sider
Whoa, missed the league realignment with all the rules changes going on.
machurucuto
The Dodgers are not in the for Judge. They clearly understand that they need a more balanced roster than spending 300M in a strike out machine. By the way Andrew Friedman is not thrilled with the idea of issuing long term contracts.
mvpetro
Yeah I’m sure the Dodgers look at Aaron Judge and immediately think strike out machine
GreenMonsta
Lol, mvpetro. Judge led the league in Runs, RBIs, HRs, OBP, SLG, OPS, OPS+, TB. ——- What some people see in that: “a strike out machine”.
Mad Hatter
1.111 OPS and you’re complaining about strikeouts?
User 401527550
He gives out long term contracts yearly. Obviously he has no problem doing it.
slider32
Seems to me the first priority for the Dodgers is pitching. I would expect them to land one of the top pitchers if Cohen doesn’t sign them all.
solaris602
Verlander on a two-year deal with an option for a third to fill Buehler’s spot for a couple years while he recovers from TJ.
YankeesBleacherCreature
Sure let’s focus on the strikeouts and also say that he’s too tall.
Big whiffa
I disagree. Seems like to me the dodgers want to put the very best team on the field to start every season. If so, the strike out machine will be there top priority
ChiSoxCity
2023 is the year the White Sox dip below .500, and the selloff begins at the trade deadline. This is what happens when you have a donkey for a franchise owner, surrounded by cronies and sycophants. Gonna be a long summer in Chicago (again!).
Augusto Barojas
I share your optimism! Cueto and Abreu had the 2nd and 3rd highest WARs on the team. Abreu has been their most consistent hitter vs RHP the past 3 years and healthiest player. Losing both of them should put them under .500 even if a couple guys have better years. I say start now by trading Liam and Graveman, get some prospects to be ready for 2024/25. But it’s pointless with this ownership anyway, they won’t be good no matter what they do if Grandal is the most expensive free agent they ever sign. Cubs might be interesting in a year or two depending on whether they land one of the really good SS’s this winter. Jerry should just sell the White Sox and put fans out of their misery.
nrd1138
Actually Abreu was not the healthiest player on the team, he just fought through injuries to be out there when others get a sliver and sit on the bench for 30 days. This attitude apparently did not rub off on his team mates though when it came to injuries.
Central Valley
Where is the Off-season Chat: San Francisco Giants?
Time for Farhan Zaidi to deliver.
JackStrawb
“What have you done for me since 2021 !!!”
Central Valley
Dodgers are going to let Trea Turner walk?
User 401527550
Turner wants to be on the East Coast.
CaptainJudge99
Yes his girlfriend supposedly lives in New Jersey.
Yankee Clipper
I heard he already has an apartment in NY and a locker in the Yankees clubhouse……
Wait, maybe that was just a dream.
User 401527550
It shouldn’t be. He is exactly what the Yankees need.
dirkg
His proctologist lives in Queens. And his dog groomer as well. All this points to him being a Yankee. Book it.
Shrutefarm
Yes, as they should.
Unclemike1525
Cueto and Vasquez would be great additions for the White Sox. I think Cueto has some left and the Sox need another Major League backstop in case Grandal gets hurt again. Then Grandal could DH to a little to save wear and tear and Vasquez could get more playing time. I’m in. Zavala is a fair 3rd option, but not long term solution.
BeeVeeTee
Hopefully, the Sox can see better offensive production from Grandal this upcoming with the dismantling of the infield shift. The biggest issue with the White Sox the last two seasons is actually having all of their guys healthy and playing in the same line up together.
JerseyShoreScore
The Dodgers are not making a run at Judge. This is just his agent feeding Heyman talking points in an attempt to squeeze a few more dollars out of the Yankees and Giants. Dodgers are going to stay under the luxury tax and will allocate their money towards shortstop and a starting pitcher. The rest of their holes will be plugged from within.
User 401527550
They go over the cap when Bauer wins his appeal soon. There is no way they don’t have a $300 mil payroll when the roster is filled out. The Dodgers aren’t deciding to go to a 80-90 win team for money.
BlueSkies_LA
Nightmare on, dude. Stick a fork in Bauer, he’s done.
User 401527550
He is done but the Dodgers have a good shot on having to pay him anyway.
BlueSkies_LA
And you say this based on what, exactly?
User 401527550
He was not criminally charged and there has never been a suspension handed out of that magnitude. The suspension is not in line over other suspension.Basically a three year suspension for accusations. He has a real good shot at having his suspension reduced or vacated. Obviously the Dodgers won’t let him play again but they will have to pay him.
BlueSkies_LA
Like a lot of people who comment here, you don’t understand the policy. First, it has absolutely nothing to do with being charged criminally. Zero. In fact if a player is charged criminally, the policy is inoperative because the player is placed on the ineligible list for that reason and forfeits pay. Second, under the policy players are paid during the investigatory period, which for Bauer covered a full year. Third, the policy is clear that the length of a suspension is up to the commissioner. It was unprecedented due to the situation AND because unlike every other player previously sanctioned under the policy, he has completely refused to acknowledge that he violated it or agreed to any suspension. He dug his own hole, jumped in, and then kept digging. This is why his appeal is unlikely to go anywhere.
User 401527550
I think I understand the policy more then you do. The commissioner can’t make an arbitrary ruling that isnt consistent. He can’t just make up punishments out of a whim. It is no longer in the commissioners hands.
BlueSkies_LA
If you confuse criminal charges with the policy you automatically exclude yourself from any argument that you understand it better, because it means you don’t understand it at all. Then if you assert with zero evidence and completely illogically besides that the commissioner’s decision was “arbitrary” or “inconsistent” and made on a “whim” then you are completely dealing yourself out of any serious discussion of the matter. But like the man said, when you find yourself in a hole, you should really stop digging.
Pads Fans
MLB doesn’t need him to be criminally charge to suspend him. Now that a total of 3 women, at least one of which got a restraining order against him, have come forward, Bauer has no shot on appeal.
MLB will never allow him to play again. The PR hit would be too big.
That you are trying to defend him says all we need to know about you as a person.
BlueSkies_LA
The joint policy is a code of conduct developed jointly by the players and the owners. The suspensions do not apply to players who are charged with a crime, they apply to players who violate the policy. This concept should be a lot more readily understood than it seems to be.
Salvi
I agree with Mets. LASkies seems like a true homer in his opinion.
1) Criminal charges would make it much worse for Bauer.
2) He only got paid for 99 games, not a full-season.
3) I dont think Commission has god powers, like in the NFL.
4) “unprecedented” — Domestic abuse is very common in baseball and other pro sports. This isn’t some uncharted territory.
5) “he has completely refused to acknowledge that he violated it or agreed to any suspension.” So what? According to his version, he did nothing wrong. A true LA opinion right there. ‘Kiss the ring, and we’ll let you go back to work’.
Salvi
Where did he “confuse criminal charges” He just said he wasn’t charge.
BlueSkies_LA
No, just a true understander of the facts. You are revealing your own lack of knowledge.
1) Of course it would be “worse” for Bauer if he was criminally charged, but not because of the joint policy. The policy would not even apply in that case because he would be placed on the ineligible list and not paid. The policy comes in when players are NOT charged with crimes but still violate their terms of employment. Third time explained. Get it yet?
2) He was placed on administrative leave in the middle of the 2021 season and remained there for the balance of the season, so he was paid for that entire season.
3) The commissioner has the powers clearly outlined in the joint policy. Learn what they are, it isn’t a secret. No silly exaggerations required.
4) You’re right, domestic abuse is not uncharted territory in sports or anywhere else. MLB and the PA developed the policy jointly to get ahead of the problem, and the policy has been used to address cases more than a dozen times since it was adopted.
5) Even with the limited information that became public it’s clear he violated the policy (just read it). This, along with everything else the commissioner knows and we don’t, is also the basis for the lengthy suspension. Until Bauer, every player in his situation acknowledged their mistake, took their medicine, and in many cases rebuilt their careers. Bauer completely refuses to do that because it seems he believes he can do no wrong, which is how he got into this situation in the first place. Funny how that doesn’t work in the real world.
Salvi
You said “You are revealing your own lack of knowledge.” Then you proceed to concede 3 of my points, which all contradict your earlier post.
1) “of course it would be worse” So it would be worse with criminal charges? Which is what mets69 said, as well as me.
2) “placed on administrative leave in the middle of the 2021 season and remained there for the balance of the season” So he wasnt suspended for “a whole season” as you claimed.
4 “youre right domestic abuse isnt uncharted territory” what happened to “its an unprecedented situation” you said earlier?
Youre opinions/points are all over the place.
BlueSkies_LA
Oh good freaking grief. Please at least try to pay attention.
JerseyShoreScore
Dodgers may figure why bother going for 100 plus wins every season, when they should still be good enough to win in the 90 to 95 win range with a $230 million payroll in 2023… Buehler is out for 2023, just get under the cap for one year, go all in on Ohtani in 2024 and back up and over the cap moving forward. There is just SO MUCH value resetting the cap for just one season.
Fever Pitch Guy
Mets6986 – Will Friedman get fired for having a large payroll despite all the success?
Oh, wait a minute … the Dodgers aren’t owned by John Henry … nevermind.
User 401527550
I never complained about the Dodgers are having a big payroll. Friedman is doing what he needs to do to make the Dodgers compete at a high level every year.
Wainofan
I’d be a fan of cards signing both Vasquez and Contreras. Willson as DH, with ideally about 50-60 games at catcher to give Vazquez rest and keep him fresh as he ages. Then trade Gorman, yepez and other expendable pieces for starting pitcher or upgrade OF
pinstripeblue
Big Judge fan here. I do think he will sign with the Giants unless Yanks (and others) offer blows him away. He’s a home boy and family guy. Also, the Giants fan base is much more laidback than NY’s.
ctbronx7
If the Dodgers want to overpay for Judge, Hal should just tell him, “Nice knowing you, have fun.” Then turn around and sign Rodon and the FA Japanese outfielder. For less overall money, the Yanks will get more cumulative production.
Yankee Clipper
They say they have a Plan B, which will replace Judge without losing any production on the field. I assume that’s just talk, but I would love to know what that plan is, however. It would be interesting to see their perspective on that.
whyhayzee
They’re going sign players from the Old Dominion Athletic Conference:
Shenandoah Hornets
Lynchburg Hornets
Randolph-Macon Yellow Jackets
Roanoke Maroons
Bridgewater Eagles
Washington and Lee Generals
Hampden-Sydney Tigers
Virginia Wesleyan Marlins
Ferrum Panthers
Eastern Mennonite Royals
Guilford Quakers
Emory & Henry Wasps
That’s their plan bee.
slider32
Yanks will make the playoffs with or without Judge. Plan B would mean they sign one of the SS move Volpe to third and Peraza to 2nd.. They add Benintendi or Nimmo, and sign Rondon, and add more pitching by trading Torres, Hicks and Donaldson., oh and add Yoshida. They might be a better team. Line up
Turner, Masataka,, Rizzo, Stanton, Beni/Nimmo, Volpe, Peraza, Trevino, and Cabreara/Bader. In 24 you have the Martian and Jones coming up. Rotation- Cole, Rondon, Sevy, Nestor, and Montas
utah cornelius
Cashman hasn’t mentioned that he’s going for a SP. Disconcerting to Yankee fans, no doubt, but there it is.
Pete'sView
No one is taking Donaldson or Hicks, at least not for anyone of interest.
Yankee Clipper
Pete, I agree. I think the question is who do we have to give you along with them and how much do we have to pay you to take them…
alwaysgo4two
Dodgers…huh? Well, that pretty much settles it, as the Dodgers pretty much get whatever they want.
Doral Silverthorn
Except Cole, Scherzer, Rendon and every other free agent that didn’t want to go to LA for whatever reason. Don’t act like the Dodgers geeky every free agent they want. Freeman grew up in LA, Betts was acquired via trade and extended. FOH
slider32
Scherzer was with the Dodgers 2 years ago when they lost to the Braves. I’m not sure that any player wouldn’t want to play there. Great team, great weather, great fans base, and they will be in the playoffs every year.
slider32
It will be interesting to see who goes first, Judge, a SS, or the top pitchers!
Pete'sView
Nimmo.
Yankee Clipper
I think Judge may come off the board this week.
Augusto Barojas
The White Sox need another starter. Unfortunately they will wind up spending a total of like $5M to get like 3 or 4 mediocre to awful players. Cueto isn’t coming back on a deal like he got last year, after how good he was, so count him out. Think Vince Velasquez reunion!
Central Valley
Giants need a lot more than Judge. Their entire roster needs retooling.
Mrski
The Yankees and their fans think this guy is going to hit 62? Possibly but mid to late thirties is closer than mid twenties. Unless they can Bonilla up a contract it’s a mistake for the long run.
Trea turner will get you a better return on the field and a worse return in the stands.
utah cornelius
I haven’t heard anyone say they think Judge is going to hit 62.
Yankee Clipper
Mr ski: Maybe you heard everyone say he did hit 62? Because he did. With that said, I have yet to see/read/hear any Yankees fan talk about how many HRs Judge will hit at all next season, let alone committing to another year at 62.
But Turner is an excellent player, certainly one of my top preferences.
User 3044878754
Judge isn’t going anywhere
stroh
They said that about Freeman last year. Money talks. I think the odds are that Judge stays, but only if the offer difference is small. If the Yanks won’t go above $337M for 8 years ($42M/yr) and the Dodgers or Giants are willing to do $400M ($50M/yr), no amount of sentiment will change the answer.
CaptainJudge99
Not leaving the Yankees.
User 401527550
He would have already signed if he was staying.
Kershaw's Lesser Known Right Arm
Let me be very clear. The Andrew Friedman Dodgers aren’t offering Aaron Judge anything close to $400 million.
User 401527550
Why is that? Did he not pay Betts 376m? Friedman has done nothing but give big contracts since arriving in LA. Saying otherwise is just wrong.
machurucuto
Judge is not Betts
Kershaw's Lesser Known Right Arm
I thinking lying, as you just did 3 times, is wrong.
1.) The Dodgers DID NOT pay Mookie Betts $376m. His contract is $365m/12 years + deferrals, + the 2020 prorated salary. Strike one.
2.) Obviously you know nothing about the Dodgers when you state your second lie. Friedman has done anything BUT give big contracts since arriving in L.A., with a few notable anomalies. Depends what you define as “big” but if you’re talking Betts territory, that’s the only one. The last two offseasons (Friedman is entering his 9th offseason with L.A.) are the only times the Friedman Dodgers have given anyone else over $100m (Bauer/Freeman). Strike two.
3.) “Saying otherwise is just wrong.” This is self-explanatory. Strike three, you’re out, Mets6986!
Pads Fans
He didn’t pay Betts $376 million. It was $365 million over 12 seasons. Betts was 3 years younger than Judge when he signed that contract, too.
Pads Fans
The highest AAV for a position player is Trout at $36 million. How much more than that do you think Judge will ask for going into his age 31 season?
foppert
Dodgers scare me. I have them as a covert submarine, laying low and just waiting for the right time to fire the big missile.
FWIW, some random Yankee fan appeared at the top of my YouTube feed talking about the offer to Judge being 337m. Seem pretty confidant on that number, wasn’t sure on the years.
Bobby smac9
Sign Strahm with the understanding that he will compete for a starting spot.
Bobby smac9
It isn’t as if the Sox are flush with starting pitchers
99socalfrc
“Wants to play closer to home” an easy way to spot an agent trying to gain leverage
CaptainJudge99
But I don’t.
Augusto Barojas
I’m surprised no mention of Judge to the Mets? I don’t think is that far fetched, an article on ESPN about the possibility. Yankees, Giants, Dodgers, Mets… I could see him wind up any of those 4 places, Yankees most likely, but I would not count out the Mets.
I love how the title of this article starts out “Judge, White Sox…” the White Sox are probably the least likely of all MLB teams!
SupremeZeus
There are only a few teams that are willing to spend that kind of money on one player and can take that kind of risk if a Judge k goes south. Obviously his agent is going to stoke those flames to try to improve what little leverage they have w/ so few teams in those deep waters. Any Judge k is strictly an ownership level negotiation so any article/tweet will have zero influence and is merely self-stimulation by the author.
Salvi
“There are only a few teams that are willing to spend that kind of money on one player”
Can you list them? Top 10 biggest contracts of all times include Mia, Phil, NY, NYM, SD, LAD, LAA. So theres 7. What about Red Sox, Cubs, White Sox, Rangers, Astros, Orioles, Mariners, Nationals, Giants?
How many is “a few” to you?
Kershaw's Lesser Known Right Arm
Jon Heyman is as reliable with these baseball “rumors” as I am when I say I won’t eat the last Oreo cookie
JPR
What does “increasing belief” even mean? The internet has spawned many things, and one is trading in “rumors” that exist solely to drive people to the rumor starter’s site or newsfeed. The idea that Heyman has any insight at all into who is pursuing Judge or where Judge wishes to sign is just absurd.
Big whiffa
Wow could u imagine having the Yankees giants and dodgers all bidding for your services at the same time ?!? This is going to be one of the most massive overpays in mlb history ! Judge gotta be living his best life right now !
nrd1138
At this point I just presume that White Sox are cursed to always be a mediocre team that happened to catch enough breaks to win the 05 World Series and then become mediocre for another 100 years… Just cannot find a GM that can be like a ‘Beane’. Yknow, knowing their owner is a tightwad imbecile , but being able to work within that to try to put a competitive team out there. While improved, still a somewhat mediocre minor league scouting staff, picking mediocre managers (or in the case of LaRussa, one well past their prime in a power play by said owner), mediocre training staffs, and just bargain hunting for FAs (getting guys who had great stats on the baseball cards… 5- or more- seasons prior) when they should be aiming for the stars if this is their ‘window to win’. I just have no faith that, whatever move the Sox make, that it will pan out for their benefit, even with a new owner, who would just ‘rebuild’ the team again and likely get another mediocre product on the field for lord knows how long, only to finally ‘get it right’ only to watch them under perform again… I always hope the Sox do well, I hope this or that breaks their way (that all of the ‘ifs’ come true) but I think reality has set in that nothing can overcome this goof ball ownership’s inability to get a winning product on the field.
Big whiffa
If it wasn’t for Angels – the white sox would be the worst ran large market team by a very wide margin. You’re right about beane though – he could fix that !
Augusto Barojas
@nrd The Dodgers have won at least 90 games for 10 straight years, excluding 2020 (when they had a .700 winning pct). They have not had a top 15 draft pick during that time. And yet they somehow have a very highly rated farm system (I’ve seen as high as 5th), which seems crazy to me. That must mean that the Dodgers have way, way smarter people working for them – either at scouting/drafting, or player development. Or more likely, both. If the Sox were smart, they would poach at least one person away from that organization to find out what the hell they are doing right, and why the Sox organization are a bunch of misfits by comparison. Most teams could learn a lot from the Dodgers, they are not only rich but incredibly well run top to bottom. Even if Reinsdorf did suddenly want to spend, they need much better people scouting/developing. They get so little from their minor leagues it is pitiful.
ac000000
Cubs could give Strahm a 2 year starter contract maybe 5 then 3. If it pans out and they play well then good. If it pans out and they don’t win then trade him in July. Otherwise not too much money.
chemfinancing
dodgers will probably end up getting verlander
99socalfrc
I think the numbers being floated for Judge are going to prove to be VERY optimistic guesses.
He is turning 31 in April, are people forgetting that every player to get $300m+ is like 5 years younger than that?
Like it or not this situation is more Freddie Freeman than it is Harper, Machado or Betts
YankeesBleacherCreature
I don’t think Judge minds being over 30. He’ll get Betts money at around Freeman’s age.
sliderwithcheeze
Football is starting so let’s table this discussion until the afternoon games are complete.
IronBallsMcGinty
I think mlbtr missed the White Sox non tendering Engel, Mendick, and Payton.
eddiemathews
The Giants may be willing to break the bank for Judge, but the Dodgers and Yankees have bigger banks, bigger markets, and better chances to win it all.
The Saber-toothed Superfife
Harris and the Detroit Tigers sign Judge. He waives his no.trade clause, gets his contract demands.met on a team option.
whyhayzee
I just hope this off-season doesn’t involve endless he said she said nonsense for weeks before anyone of consequence signs a contract.
Lay the money on the table boys and make your choices. Get this over with so we can start the jibber jabber about next year.
Pads Fans
Dodgers offer 5 years $220 million plus two $40 million option years that vest at 550 PA and an opt out after season 3.
7/300 if he can stay healthy.
BleedzBlue
I’m still not convinced Mookie was a great long term signing. Don’t shoot your wad on a boom or bust that won’t age well. BAD IDEA!
PulledaBloom
Mookie has already proved your thinking faulty. Mookie is an ideal long term guy since he takes care of himself like Tom Brady and his power comes from his wrists not his size much like Ernie Banks. LAD was very smart to sign him and have enjoyed a 134 OPS+ during a COVID era when not many have been close to his numbers.
baseballguru
RedSox need to lock up Judge, extend Devers, Let Bogey go & sign Turner 1st & Correa as option 2. Then Bloome can get those mid tier arms he’s looking at for the rotation & pen. If ever a team had a perfect fit for their OF & power outage it’s Boston! John Henry needs to make Judge a mandate!
PulledaBloom
Baseballguru – I love your thinking. With an empty payroll going into 2023 this is a perfect time to find 6 ideal studs to build your future. You know there are a few decent prospects in the minors so focus long term and find a long term solution at 3B and the corner outfield spots. Find 3 long term stud pitchers to go with the young guns currently doing well like Houck, Whitlock and Bello. Finally, invest in a closer that can compete with the other AL East closers. The money is there to revamp the busted team Bloom has put together but Bloom isn’t the guy to fix his own mistakes. Go get a real GM who understands how to build a winner and has done it before.
I suggest serious looks at:
C – Narvaez
1B – Go with Casas and Dalbec and see if either proves worthy
2B – Story
SS – Bogey
3B – Trade for a REAL 3B who can field and hit
LF – Bring back Benny
CF – One year deal with Bellinger (can’t be worse than what we’ve had for a decade)
RF – Trade Devers for a big time RF power hitter who fields like Mookie
DH – Resign JD at a reduced price (still highest WAR among FAs at DH)
SP – Go after deGrom, Verlander (3 yr $120MM and 2 yr $60MM)
Get Nate for 3 yr $75MM if you can’t get both
RP – Sign Smith from Atlanta to close
Bloom went over the CAP and finished last. If you are going to go over at least buy quality players not volumes of mediocre players!!