The New York Yankees will surely be in the market for starting pitching this winter given the current state of their rotation, with a former division rival being mentioned as a potential target.
Free agent Chris Bassitt has been named as a candidate to end up with the Yankees. Bassitt has spent 11 seasons in the Majors, pitching for the Oakland Athletics, New York Mets, and most recently the Toronto Blue Jays.
Last season in Toronto, Bassitt pitched to a 11-9 record, with a 3.96 ERA and 166 strikeouts. Bassitt was a key part of the Blue Jays’ run to the World Series last season, pitching to a 1.04 ERA in seven postseason appearances (one start).
Now a free agent, Steve Adams of MLB Trade Rumors made a prediction that Bassitt will sign with the Yankees on a two-year $38 million deal.
“Bassitt turns 37 in February, so he isn’t going to secure another three-year contract. He should be able to secure a two-year deal at a decent annual rate,” Adams said. “Bassitt still projects as a rock solid fourth starter who takes the ball every fifth day. A fastball that once sat above 93 MPH now checks in more in the 91-92 range — at least out of the rotation — but it’s good enough stuff to post underlying numbers that align with a 4.00 ERA type pitcher.”
Acquiring a middle of the rotation pitcher such as Bassitt may prove valuable for the Yankees, who will start next season without Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodon, and Clarke Schmidt due to injuries. Getting another quality starter next to Max Fried will certainly be a priority for the Yankees this offseason.
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