The New York Yankees are locked in what is anticipated to be a bidding war for the reigning AL MVP.
Aaron Judge is coming off a 62-home run season, breaking the single season record for the AL, and is expected to haul in a big paycheck.
Every home run from Aaron Judge’s 2022 MVP season! pic.twitter.com/CTT7xa00Vk
— YankeeSavant (@YankeeSavant) November 18, 2022
It is deservingly so, and it will force the Yankees to dig deep into their pockets.
However, how high will they go?
Here is a look at what it may take to bring Judge back to the Bronx.
Other Teams Drive Up Price
A number of teams have expressed their interest in Judge.
The San Francisco Giants have emerged as a major candidate, as they are Judge’s hometown team.
He grew up in Northern California and it seems like they are willing to spend a lot to bring him to the Bay.
Expect them to try and match any offer the Yankees make, and drive the price up even more.
Early projections place the contract in the $320 million range, something the Giants can currently afford.
Breaking news into @MLBNetworkvia video from San Francisco: Aaron Judge has arrived in the city and is expected to meet with the #SFGiants this week. Join us on #MLBNHotStove at 9 am ET tomorrow for the latest. @MLB pic.twitter.com/pq0at6kgQ6
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) November 22, 2022
Depending on how many years they offer, this could go up even further.
The Los Angeles Dodgers have also expressed interest in the right fielder, and everyone knows how much they are willing to spend for stars.
These two bidders alone could drive up his price.
Will The Yankees Offer Length?
While the Yankees already have a high payroll, they have the ability to shovel more money to their star.
The $320 million number should not be scary for the Yankees, and it would be worth it to keep Judge in the Bronx.
However, how long will they make the contract?
Judge is turning 31 for the 2023 season and could raise some question marks around the length of his contract.
If a team like the Giants or Dodgers are willing to give him nine or 10 years, this could elevate their offer over the Yankees.
Expect the Yankees to go up to around eight years, with a $40-$42 million annual average to elevate their offer over any of their competitors.
With how much Judge likes and respects the pinstripes, this offer should be enough to stay.
