SAN DIEGO — Didi Gregorius will hold a distinct place with the Yankees for the way he handled a difficult job, succeeding Derek Jeter at shortstop with production and leadership.
But now the Yankees will have to find his successor.
Gregorius agreed Tuesday to a one-year, $14 million contract to reunite with new Phillies manager Joe Girardi. Gregorius will try to reestablish value in 2020 and head back into free agency for a bigger (longer) payday next offseason.
Gregorius had his best season in 2018 with 27 homers and an .829 OPS, but he finished the year needing Tommy John surgery.