That tweet should send shivers up the spine of Yankee Nation.
As I predicted many times this year, failing to acquire Lee in July (through no fault of their own) created a situation where he would fall in love with his surroundings. The fact that Texas had two meetings with Lee tells me they are pulling out the stops to keep him in the fold. The news that a sixth year would get a deal done makes me believe the lefty might be leaning towards staying in Texas.
I already outlined why this would be a good move for Lee in the long run. Close to home, less pressure, and he could be the king of the castle versus just another star. Playing for the Yankees is fun, but I still think taking a few less bucks to be close to home with a winning team is well worth it. Yes, it may be hard to believe, but there is a whole world outside of New York.
This may be the proverbial putting the cart before the horse, but what if Lee doesn’t sign? Where do the Yankees go?
As Jed Weisberger pointed out on Sunday nights show they could use prospects to acquire a #3 type starter. Shaun Marcum was just traded to Milwaukee for a reasonable price. Would the Marlins trade Ricky Nolasco for Yankees prospects?
They could also dabble in the free agent market. I doubt they revisit Carl Pavano, especially since Mike Rizzo has become the Nancy Pelosi of baseball when it comes to free agent spending. Unfortunately I don’t see much unless they want to scour the scrap heap for the likes of Jeff Francis, Chris Young, or Brad Penny.
What they could also do is convince Andy Pettitte to come back for another year, and use the Lee money to bring in Carl Crawford. They would then be able to dangle Curtis Granderson or Nick Swisher for a higher caliber pitcher in a trade. For instance, would the Cubs trade Carlos Zambrano for Granderson? There also has to be pitchers that are quietly available. No one thought Javier Vazquez was available last year till the Yankees acquired him. Speaking of Atlanta, I am sure Derek Lowe could be had at a reasonable price.
I still think Lee winds up in New York. Every report we have been given is they will go “all out” to acquire Lee. It sounds like a seven year deal will need to happen in order to get it done.
The Yankees must prepare for worst case scenario. Personally, if Lee flies the coop I would sign Crawford to bolster the offense, and see what Granderson, Gardner, or Swisher will fetch me in a deal.
Now if Lee signs with Texas and Andy Pettitte decides to retire as well….