The Yankees non-Gerrit Cole move that would shock everyone

Here are three things to watch ahead of the MLB’s winter meetings this week. 

1. God forbid Brian Cashman and Scott Boras are seen talking in the bowels of the Hyatt. That would spark a reaction that will take down the hotel wireless. It is unlikely the Yankees leave Thursday with Cole signed, but nor is it likely the Dodgers or Angels take him home, either. Lefties Dallas Keuchel and Hyun-Jin Ryu, each represented by Boras, are fall-back options if Cole doesn’t land in The Bronx.

2. The Yankees believe they have Gleyber Torres as a replacement at shortstop should Didi Gregorius leave, are covered behind the plate with Kyle Higashioka should Austin Romine split, and there is enough depth in bullpen if Dellin Betances goes elsewhere. That shouldn’t stop them from seeing what’s available in those areas.

3. A surprise? Cole wouldn’t be a surprise. At this point it would be classified as a shock if he didn’t join the Yankees. Is there a team with a regular outfielder willing to deal? Forget Mookie Betts. The Red Sox might move him, but it won’t be to the hated Yankees. How about signing free-agent shortstop Addison Russell to replace Gregorius — which would allow Torres to remain at second, where he is better than at short, and keep DJ LeMahieu at first?

Source: Read Full Article