Andy Martino, SNY.tv | Twitter |
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. -- Brian Cashman confirmed on Tuesday that the Yankees will engage with free agent starter Gerrit Cole. That pursuit is likely to take months, but early word is that another potential Yankee target might choose his next team sooner than later.
According to industry sources, agent Scott Boras has indicated to teams that Cole is unlikely to sign anywhere before January, but the markets for Stephen Strasburg and Anthony Rendon should move faster than expected.
The Yankees will also pursue Strasburg, at least to some extent. They are almost certainly not interested in Rendon because of their belief in the futures of Gio Urshela and Miguel Andujar.
Boras controls a significant chunk of the high-end free agent market this winter. He represents Cole, Rendon, Strasburg, Hyun-jin Ryu and Dallas Keuchel. He is notorious for his deliberate pace, and often keeps his clients on the market deep into the new year.
This does appear to be the plan with Cole, according to teams who have spoken to Boras, but not so much with Strasburg. The Nationals are already trying to bring Strasburg back, and the Padres and other clubs are expected to be interested.
Boras declined comment, saying he will address the media on Wednesday.