Yoshinobu Yamamoto might not be present in the Winter Meetings but he sure has everyone’s attention. A free agent with half the league after him, he’s reportedly ready to sign a contract that’s even bigger than $200 million. Among the chief contenders are the New York Yankees and their cross-town rivals, the New York Mets. Amidst the tough competition, Yankees GM Brian Cashman shed some light on the situation on Tuesday.

Even though the Bronx Bombers should be quite accustomed to luring the biggest free agents, things have changed lately. Steve Cohen has the deepest pockets in baseball and is ready to put them to good use. Perhaps that’s why the Yamamoto trade might not be smooth sailing for the Pinstripers.

Brian Cashman praises Yoshinobu Yamamoto as the Mets lurk in the shadows

The Samurai Japan ace has already held online meetings with some teams to create a shortlist. While that list hasn’t been made public yet, what is known is that he has impressed everyone. A few months ago, Brian Cashman sat in the front row when Yamamoto threw his second no-hitter.

As The Athletic reported, he was ecstatic when he witnessed the scene. The Yankees GM said, “It made my trip worthwhile flying all that way to watch the artistry play out, which was really moving. For him to do that for his fans and his team as they were going through their playoff effort, it was cool.”

Cashman, however, was not surprised at the display. He confirmed that the Yankees have scouted Yamamoto extensively, with one scout attending every single game that the ace played. All of this indicates a strong interest in the Bronx Squad for him. But there is a slight issue, aka their cross-town rivals. 

Read more: Yankees’ Uncharacteristic Glee Sparks Speculation: Is the Juan Soto Trade Near Finish Line?

The New York Mets are probably the richest team in baseball today. Their owner Steve Cohen is willing to spend huge amounts to end the team’s trophy drought since 1986. The Yankees will have to worry because the Amazin’ Mets can stretch the prize to a level that even the Pinstripes won’t be able to match. 

The Mets threat

Cashman knows that the Mets are a tough competitor to have, what with their billionaire owner and Japanese connection in Kodai Senga. However, he is ready to compete. 

Kodai Senga will likely help in attracting Yamamoto to the Queens side. Another problem could be the Yankees’ trade talk for Juan Soto. They’d have to ensure that the Dominican’s high salary doesn’t handicap them in the pursuit of Yamamoto.

It’ll be very interesting to see the New Yorker teams competing against each other.

Watch This Story: Mets Gear Up For Yamamoto Showdown: Going All In Amidst Intense Yankees Pursuit