The New York Yankees have been making moves to their 40-man roster in the past few days.
They protected some prospects to avoid losing them in the Rule 5 Draft, and they announced the return of first baseman Anthony Rizzo on a two-year, $34 million contract with a club option for 2025.
Rizzo returning was necessary to help keep quality hitters in the lineup.
Rizzo regained his power stroke this year, hitting 32 home runs and supplying a consistent source of power that extended into postseason play (the same can’t be said about his teammates).
Yet, the Yankees’ offseason will really start when outfielder Aaron Judge makes his decision.
Former Yankees outfielder Johnny Damon is urging the Bombers to re-sign Judge so they can still be competitive in the American League.
@TheJudge44 up next #Yankees 🔒
— Johnny Damon (@JohnnyDamon) November 15, 2022
Damon played with the Yankees between 2006 and 2009.
Damon Wants The Yankees To Show Judge The Money
He is one of only 12 players to win a World Series with the Boston Red Sox (2004) and the Yankees (2009).
He completed an amazing career that included 2,769 hits, 235 home runs, and 408 stolen bases, with two All-Star berths.
Time got him more involved with the Yankees, and he is now asking the team to lock up the man who can get the team over the hump: Judge.
Not only did Judge break the American League single-season home run record with 62, but he also hit .311 and played elite defense at center and right field.
Yes, he is 30 and will probably command an eight-year deal at minimum, but everyone knows he will be worth it.
The Yankees have had discussions about making him the captain of the team if he returns.
It’s an opportunity that most Yankees players dream about for their whole careers.
This time, the ball is in the Yanks’ court: they need to make a serious, competitive offer.
NEXT: Yankees Analyst Breaks Down The Anthony Rizzo Deal