The Yankees' shortstop situation just became very clear, as Didi Gregorius has agreed to a one-year deal with the Phillies, according to multiple reports. NBC Sports' Jim Salisbury has the deal set at $14 million for the year.
Brian Cashman said he was talking to all the Yankees on the free agent market, and Gregorius was among them. But with Gleyber Torres under team control and his natural position being shortstop, SNY's Andy Martino reported earlier this offseason that a Gregorius reunion was unlikely.
It was suggested on Monday by MLB Network's Jon Heyman that Gregorius was going to see a multi-year deal worth $14-15 million per season. But while the price range was correct, Gregorius didn't get that long-term deal, which is likely caused by a mediocre season following a return from Tommy John surgery.
A solid year in Philadelphia for the soon-to-be 30-year-old could give him more value when he's set to be a free agent once again. He also joins a very familiar face in Joe Girardi, who was his manager with the Yankees for three seasons.
In 2019, Gregorius hit .238/.276/.441 with 16 homers and 61 RBI over 82 games. He also had a solid ALDS against the Twins, but struggled against the Astros in the ALCS.
So Gregorius' days as a Yankee are done for now after five seasons. He had a tough task replacing Derek Jeter in the 2015 season, but he quickly became a fan favorite with his trustworthy defense and big lefty swing that developed into a powerful one under the Yankees' tutelage.
In 660 games, Gregorius slashed .269/.313/.446 with 97 homers and 360 RBI, while providing a crucial leadership presence on and off the field.