NEXT WINTER WISH LIST ITEM: CARLOS RODON IN PINSTRIPES!

Let the battle begin! Carlos Rodon is the top remaining free agent starter, and several teams want him. This one may come down to yet another competition between the Yankees and the San Francisco Giants.

If that's the case and this does come down to us and the Giants, we do have momentum on our side now that Aaron Judge has returned. So hopefully that helps us get a strong pitching return to the roster now that Jameson Taillon is a Cubbie. The loss of Taillon may not sound like a big loss but he did throw 177 innings for us last season so that's a large workload to replace.

And it has to be the right replacement. Last season Frankie Montas didn't deliver as expected and Luis Severino hasn't pitched a regular workload since 2018 due to injuries. Taillon leaves a hole bigger than some may realize, and Rodon has matured nicely the last two years after five mediocre years with the White Sox. Rodon could be the guy that helps round out the rotation.

I'm a big fan of a lefty, especially at Yankee stadium. I believe Rodon adds depth to the pitching rotation that would make all opponents uncomfortable. I think he brings balance and could be very productive in New York....could be. The real question is, can he handle the pressure that comes with pitching in New York? That is always the million-dollar question.

Rodon is about to get a payday, and rumor has it he is seeking a seven-year deal, read more HERE. Before the offseason kicked into full gear, he was seeking a six-year deal but since teams so far are not shying away from their investments, he should easily get that. The question is.... will he stay in San Francisco? Will he be a Yankee....or will another team snag him? The Yankees are preparing an offer along with at least 6 other known teams but again, not surprising.

The Yankees need to address their rotation, I think Rodon has the skillset, but I'm not so sure the Yankees will make another long-term commitment at a high annual average value. The offseason has been crazy so far. I want Rodon, but I also don't want to overpay for him either. 

--Jeana Bellezza-Ochoa

BYB Senior Managing Editor

Twitter: @nyprincessj