Brian Cashman made his intentions crystal clear. The Yankees’ number one priority this winter is to upgrade the starting pitching. Although they have been linked to a number of free agents and trade candidates, the team’s first major move on this front was to acquire Mariners ace James Paxton.
The southpaw just turned 30 years old, and is in his second arbitration year. MLB Trade Rumors projects that Paxton will earn $9 million in arbitration this winter. He is due to become a free agent following the 2020 season, so the Yankees have him under team control for two full seasons.