Few players were as integral to the success of the Yankees in the 2000s as Mike Mussina. Due to their high payrolls, it was just expected that they would win the AL East division title every year. Mussina was a free agent import himself, having been signed away from the Baltimore Orioles when owner Peter Angelos did not aggressively pursue him once he hit the open market. However, his six-year $88.5 million contract turned out to be one of the rare free agent deals that worked out beautifully for both sides, as Mussina's consistency in the starting rotation made him a fan favorite.
Mike Mussina vs. Current Hall of Fame pitchers: A comparison
