Gleyber Torres is a prime candidate for a contract extension, as he has been a driving force behind the Yankees’ success over the past two seasons, hitting .275 with 62 home runs and 167 RBIs. A major question surrounding Torres’ situation is if he should receive a contract extension now or later.
Torres is in the final year of his rookie contract and is set for four arbitrations beginning in the 2021 season. Even though Torres will have seven years of Major League experience by the time he is set to become a free agent, he will still only be 28 years old.
So what should Brian Cashman and the Yankee organization do about their young superstar and possible “face of the franchise” player?
The largest contract given to a player with one to two years of MLB service, which is what Torres is currently classified as, was given to Andrelton Simmons from the Atlanta Braves, who gave him a 7-year, $58 million contract.
In 2019, the Braves gave Ozzie Albies a 7-year, $35 million contract that includes options for 2026 and 2027. In what could be regarded as a long-term steal for the Braves, it would not be enough to convince Torres to sign.
Simmons’ contract would be a nice starting point for the Yankees, as it would cover all four years of arbitration plus three years of free agency. The monetary value is more up his alley and would give him guaranteed money in case of injury or poor performance.
If Cashman could convince Torres to take a deal at seven years with a monetary value of $60-65 million then the Yankees would have themselves a shortstop that is fully capable of doing damage for the next seven years.
One major aspect that Cashman should not do is overpay for Torres. The Yankees have Torres under control for five more seasons and should not worry about having to lock him up long-term. If they cannot come to terms on a contract this off-season, try again next off-season.
Torres is a very crucial piece to the Yankee organization. He is very interactive with the community and is respected by many baseball fans across the country, even if they do not like the Yankees. But Torres should not be seen as a priority to get under contract for many years to come.
To answer the question, the Yankees should only sign Torres to a contract extension if the price is right. If not, try again another time.
