We have a few threads here about the ALCS and the reactive post I made about the destruction of the Yankees. Well, the off-season is here for us, so time to put news in here.
The Yankees will be picking up the option on Curtis Granderson. Due to the 2011 MVP balloting, his option is worth $15 million. The Yankees are said to be shopping the slugger, but right now, there are no good leads as the season is still on going.
The Yankees are expected to make the qualifying offer to Nick Swisher, but will not be offering him a long term deal. They are content to take the pick knowing that Swish will get a long term deal elsewhere.
Rafael Soriano is going to opt out of the final yr of his contract. The Yankees will also be offering the qualifying offer, but will not be extending his contract either, as the Yanks are content taking the pick.
In terms of replacements for them, there are a few players in mind on the trade and FA front to replace Swisher, although the Yankees really have no major internal prospect who could fill the RF slot. Their closest OF prospect is Zoilo Almonte, who is at least a half season away and some project him as a platoon player/4th OFer.
In terms of replacing Soriano, the Yankees are likely to re-sign Mariano Rivera to take the closer role and see Mark Montgomery get every shot in ST to win a spot in the pen. He struck out 99 batters in 64IP with only 22 walks. His 0.88WHIP was the lowest in the Yankee system and his 13.8K/9IP was the highest.