"7 guys making what 75% of the payroll?" - MLB broadcaster names 4 high-paid players on the Yankees roster that dominate the team
Constructing a championship-winning Major League Baseball team is tough, and the New York Yankees know all about it. It is hard to balance having star players alongside role players who do not cost much.
For the Bronx Bombers, they look like a contender this season, thanks to their $305.8 million payroll. However, only a fraction of the players take up much of that payroll, which hurts the team trying to add pieces.
Yanks' play-by-play broadcaster Michael Kay discussed the issue on The Michael Kay Show alongside Don La Greca. There is no denying that he is not a fan of the situation.
"So, Judge makes $40 [million], Gerrit Cole makes $36 [million], so that's $76 [million]. Let's say Stanton makes $26 [million]. So, 76 and 26, let's round it to $100 [million]. Carlos Rodon makes $26 [million], that's $126 million. That's four players right now," - said Kay.
For reference, the Oakland Athletics have a 2024 payroll of $47,275,000, which is significantly less. That is quite the gap, and the Yanks do not even hold the highest payroll this season.
"That's where Brian Cashman has to come under fire. Okay, you got a high payroll, but is the money being well spent that I've got to use guys on rookie contracts, guys that aren't making very much money to be able fill holes because I've got seven guys making, what, 75% of the payroll?" - said La Greca.
La Greca calls on general manager Brian Cashman to come under fire for these contracts. With all these big contracts, one injury, and the roster is deflated.
With the trade deadline approaching, can the Yankees make a splash and improve?
The Yankees are expected to explore the trade deadline for a boost during the second half. They could use another bat and some pitching would also not be too bad of an idea.
A third baseman could be somebody they target, like Los Angeles Angels slugger Luis Rengifo. He is thought to be the best third baseman in the market and would be a huge help in the Bronx.
Another player the Yanks have been tied to is relief pitcher Carlos Estevez. He would be brought in as a rental, and could be a reliever the team uses during high-leverage situations.
Expect the Bronx bombers to be plenty busy over the next few days.