Why Yankees should sign young star to extension

New York Yankees second baseman Gleyber Torres. Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

Why Yankees should sign this young star to contract extension

By Beau Adams | Last updated 8/9/23

When it comes to young talent in Major League Baseball, few other names receive as much attention as Gleyber Torres. The 26-year-old New York Yankees infielder burst onto the scene in 2018, quickly establishing himself as a rising star with his impressive power and smooth fielding skills.

Now nearing the end of his rookie contract, some wonder if he has done enough to earn a contract extension.

In his rookie season, Torres hit .271 with 24 home runs and 77 RBIs and earned a spot on the American League All-Star team — the youngest Yankee (21) to be named an All-Star. Over the past three seasons, Torres has consistently provided offensive firepower. This season, he has a slash line of .269/.335/.445 with 18 home runs and 48 RBIs.

In the last 30 games, when the fourth-place Yankees have needed him most, Torres has hit .305/.361/.529 with nine HRs.

Gleyber Torres now leads all American League second basemen with 18 home runs! pic.twitter.com/40lMCaJGmG
— Talkin' Yanks (@TalkinYanks) August 6, 2023

Beyond the numbers, Torres' impact on the team cannot be overstated. He has been a key contributor to the team's success, often coming up with clutch hits and making game-changing defensive plays. His ability to perform under pressure has made him a fan favorite and a valuable asset.

To gain further perspective on whether Torres has earned a contract extension, it's helpful to look at two other players in similar situations.

Like Torres, 29-year-old Francisco Lindor — who signed a 10-year, $341M extension with the Mets in 2021 — is an infielder with impressive offensive skills (.274/.341/.470 career slash line) and a track record of success. His extension showcased the Mets' faith in his abilities and their commitment to building a winning team.

Another comparable player is 29-year-old Houston infielder Alex Bregman, who signed a five-year, $100M extension in 2019, solidifying his place as a cornerstone of the team's lineup. With roughly two months to go in the regular season, he has 18 HRs and 70 RBIs.

Torres’ offensive production and defensive skills make him a valuable asset for any team, and his age suggests that his best years are still ahead of him.

In the end, the verdict on whether Torres has earned a contract extension will depend on the Yankees' assessment of his value, potential and the organization's financial landscape. Signing Torres now to a seven-year, $170M deal, before he becomes an unrestricted free agent in 2025, would be fair. It's roughly the midpoint of the average annual value of the Bregman and Lindor deals.

To solidify their lineup for years to come, the Yankees should make it happen.

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