The New York Yankees had a disappointing end to their 2024 season, falling to the Los Angeles Dodgers in the World Series.
However, one bright spot during New York’s postseason run was starting pitcher Gerrit Cole’s dominance on the mound.
The Yankees will be able to utilize his services further next season as ESPN’s Jeff Passan reported Monday that Cole decided to remain with the team despite originally opting out of his four-year, $144M deal on Saturday.
The surprising move over the weekend prompted a stand-off of sorts with the club. New York had until 5 p.m. ET Monday to void his opt-out by adding another year worth $36M, per ESPN’s Kiley McDaniel.
It appears that contingency won’t be necessary as Passan noted contract extension negotiations between Cole and the club will continue.
Cole was New York’s ace in 2024 despite missing the team’s first 75 games with elbow inflammation. He went 8-5 in 17 starts, posted a 3.41 ERA and ranked sixth on the team with 99 strikeouts.
New York will have its hands full in trying to retain key pieces from its World Series run. Per Passan, the club made a qualifying offer to outfield Juan Soto on Monday, but the 26-year-old is likely to test the market anyway.
Cole is the top of New York’s starting rotation and getting him back for 2025 is a step in the right direction for the club’s ambitions. All eyes will be on the negotiating table to see if the two sides can’t reach an agreement on keeping him in the Bronx longer.
His current deal is set to expire at the end of the 2028 season when Cole will be 37 years old.
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