Gleyber Torres, a centerpiece of the New York Yankees’ infield, enters the 2024 season fueled by a mix of potential and uncertainty. His contract hangs in the balance, casting a shadow over his future with the team. With the Bombers deeply invested in superstar Juan Soto, Torres faces a critical year. Will his on-field performance convince the Yankees to keep him in pinstripes? Or will the financial realities of a Soto-centric roster overshadow his drive for a long-term deal?

The Yankees face a difficult choice: prioritize their superstar and risk losing a valuable piece in Gleyber Torres, or pursue a more cost-balanced approach by retaining Torres and potentially jeopardizing a long-term deal with Soto.

The looming Soto factor vs. Gleyber Torres’ two-strike evolution

The Yankees’ desire to lock down Juan Soto for the remainder of his career seems to be their top priority. Projected to command a salary upwards of $38 million annually, Soto’s contract will significantly impact the Yankees’ spending power. Re-signing Torres, who could potentially earn around $17 million annually beyond this season, would further strain the team’s already stretched payroll.

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Additionally, the Yankees have rising prospects, Oswald Peraza and Jorbit Vivas, who could fill Torres’ role at a fraction of the cost. Despite the contract uncertainty, Torres is focused on maximizing his performance on the field this Spring Training. Last season, he made a crucial adjustment to his two-strike approach, ditching his leg kick for a simple toe tap. This change has led to a decrease in strikeouts and an increase in walks this season, further bolstering his value as a hitter.

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“I hate strikeouts,” Torres told The Athletic. “The adjustment last year was [about] less strikeouts and more walks… I’m just trying to benefit myself and the team.” This evolution marks a maturing player, demonstrating Torres’ commitment to continuous improvement. While Soto and other stars garner most of the attention, the Yankees’ executives still believe that the idea of retaining Torres holds some merit within it.

The underestimated catalyst

Yankees’ manager Aaron Boone believes Torres is a critical, yet understated, piece of the team’s puzzle. “I think he’s highly motivated,” Boone remarked. Skipper Brian Cashman believes the same, stating, “He’s our second baseman for this year… I haven’t had any conversations about anything past that.”

Torres’ consistent production in 2023 positioned him among the top second basemen in the league. While his contributions often go unnoticed, Torres’ consistent power, improved plate discipline, and defensive reliability make him a vital asset.

Gleyber Torres’ 2024 season promises to be a pivotal one. He undeniably demonstrates determination on the field, fueled by the desire for a long-term contract. However, the Yankees’ financial obligations to Soto cast a long shadow over Torres’ future in the Bronx. Should his performance continue to impress, the team could explore options to keep him… perhaps at the risk of straining their budget or jeopardizing future deals.

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If the contract negotiations stall beyond this year, the slugger could very well test the free agent market, leaving the door open for other teams to snag a highly motivated and increasingly refined player. Regardless of the outcome, one thing is certain: Torres is determined to make his mark in 2024, proving he’s a star worth investing in long-term.