Payroll Issues Affecting Yankees' Pursuit of Top Two Remaining Free Agents

Payroll issues could affect what the New York Yankees do heading into the season.

The New York Yankees reportedly still have interest in reigning NL Cy Young Award winner Blake Snell as he's without a team heading into Spring Training. The Yankees did offer Snell a contract earlier this winter and are believed to be in the mix for him at this point.

Jordan Montgomery is another name to watch as the former New York pitcher could add value to a team that has World Series aspirations.

However, according to Brendan Kuty and Chris Kirschner of The Athletic, their competitive balance tax reality affects the pursuit of Snell and Montgomery. The CBT means that a team would incur a 110% tax penalty on every dollar spent above the threshold. 

"For example, if the Yankees were to offer Snell a one-year contract worth $40 million, they would have to pay $44 million in luxury tax penalties, bringing the total outlay to $84 million," they write.

While the CBT could affect their pursuits, The Athletic confirms that the Yankees still have an offer out to Snell.

Tax penalties for a team that has a chance to win the World Series shouldn't be a concern. After the season New York had in 2023, adding anyone who makes their team better is a must, even if it costs them in the short and long term.

Snell has his flaws, walking 99 batters last season, but the left-hander did post a 2.25 ERA and won the Cy Young for the second time in his career.

Adding him to a rotation that has Gerrit Cole, Marcus Stroman, and a hopefully healthy Carlos Rodon would be in the mix for one of the best in baseball.

With Spring Training here and the season approaching quickly, making a move for the 31-year-old could be a game-changer.