SAN DIEGO — No Jacob deGrom, No Justin Verlander.
If the Yankees want to make a big splash in the free agent starting pitcher market, Carlos Rodon may be the only option left.
And if the first part of the offseason has proven anything, it’s that elite starters come at a price.
According to sources, Rodon wants to reach a six-year, $180 million contract.
The Yankees are coming off two stellar seasons, including last year’s interest in the lefty with the Giants, who has finally shown he can stay healthy after injuries.
He pitched to a 2.67 ERA in 2021 and ’22.
Before his most recent success, the third pick in the 2014 amateur draft was largely a disappointment.
And since he rejected the Giants’ qualifying offer of $19.65 million, signing Rodon would also cost the Yankees a pair of draft picks.
The team’s top priority remains keeping Aaron Judge in the Bronx.
The team can take a major step without the referee’s decision, but they want to do it before long.
CEO Brian Cashman He is expected to attend the winter meetings Monday at the Grand Hyatt and he has his work cut out for him, with the Yankees still in the market for two outfielders – one of which they hope will be a referee – a starting pitcher and perhaps some bullpen help.
Sources say the Yankees are still dealing with Andrew Benintendi, but there is plenty of competition for the lefty, who is coming off a broken hamstring that sidelined him at the end of last season.