Analyzing the 2011 Free Agent Class

 

With the demise of the Yankees 2010 season and the World Series a game away from ending, its time to turn our attention to 2011. Remember, there's only 105 days until Pitchers and Catchers report! We already know that Joe Girardi will be back, and over the next few days we'll take a look at the 2011 free agent class. For this first post, we'll take a look at the 2011 free agents who we're with the Yankees in 2010.

Derek Jeter & Mariano Rivera:
The Captain and Mo have a lot in common: Both are true Yankee greats, both first-ballot hall of famers, both will have their numbers retired one day, and both will be back next year. Jeter's numbers have fallen in the last few years, but he's still Derek Jeter. He'll get paid whatever he wants. His last contract, for 10 years and $189 million, is the third largest contract in the history of sports (behind only a-rod's last two contracts), and he will probably make similar money to that. The fact of the matter is, Jeter will never play anywhere else, and as much as I would like to see him take one of those small contracts like Piazza did towards the end of his carear, I don't think that is going to happen. Picture 4 years, $84 Million, loaded with incentives and a club option for a fifth year. As for Mariano, another 3 year $45 million dollar contract, also with incentives sounds about right.

Andy Pettite:
 Another year, another waiting game with Andrew Eugene Pettite. Long story short, if he wants to come back, he will. He'll solidify the back end of the rotation, and give the Yankees a reliable arm. However, the news that Pettite was injured in the postseason, along with his often stated desire to spend time in Texas with his family, raises doubt on Pettites possible return for 2011. If he wants to come back expect $12 Million for 1 year.



Lance Berkman and Nick Johnson:
The Yankees have declined the options on both Berkman and Johnson following the 2010 season. Both players underperformed in 2010, and I do not expect them to be back. Berkman will probably sign with another club, most likely in the NL. As for the last man to play with Babe Ruth Nick Johnson, his wrist surgery this year has quite possibly ended his career.

Kerry Wood:
The Yankees have also declined Kerry Wood's option for 2011, however, thanks to his stellar 2010 performance, I expect the Yankees to offer him a contract for less than the $11 offered in his option. $6 million, one year.