While Yoshinobu Yamamoto remains one of the priority signings for the New York Yankees, there are reasons to believe that things might change. The Samurai Japan ace is one of the most sought-after players currently in MLB, with nearly half of the league after him. At the same time, the market is filled with pitchers with 6 pitching signings having already been announced. Would waiting for Yamamoto’s decision prove to be a risky business?

According to some reports, the Yankees might agree with the above sentiment. This may have led them to take an important step in ensuring that they do not miss out on their targets due to this blockbuster deal. So are they up for looking at the backup options just in case?

The New York Yankees issue an ultimatum to Yoshinobu Yamamoto

Reports have emerged that the Bronx squad is following a disciplined route for the Japanese ace. While no doubt, they want to have him as part of their team; they do not want it to be at the expense of their other targets. The Yankees do not want to find themselves in a situation where they’ve been outbid and have also lost most of their targets due to being late to the party.

As a result, they are following an undisclosed but strict deadline for the Yamamoto deal. Too much time could lead to quality deals evaporating for the Bombers. They need a few big players, so spending all of their time on just one would be counterproductive. Especially when there are pitchers available who can do the same job that Yamamoto would do.

The Yankees need Yamamoto as a starting depth, as they already have a strong ace in the form of Gerrit Cole. This role can be played by free agents like Jordan Montgomery and Blake Snell or through the trade for Tyler Glasnow. 

They’d be cheaper options as well. The Yankees are looking to add two lefty outfielders to their roster. The list includes Juan Soto and Cody Bellinger. Avoiding Yamamoto could allow them the needed flexibility to sign them. In the end, it spans to a single point, Yamamoto is a want, not a need, of the Bronx Bombers. But how will Yankees exit from the Soto pursuit pan out?

The Yankees’ Decision: Ramifications of Exiting the Yamamoto Sweepstakes

If the Yankees do decide to leave, it would suddenly make the New York Mets absolute favorites to get the Japanese ace. Unlike the Pinstripes, the Queens actually are desperate for pitchers and Yamamoto would be a huge addition to their squad.

This would also open the Yankees up for other big deals. They can go after Shohei Ohtani more seriously or some other blockbuster deals. Without a potential $200 million deal, they’d have intense flexibility.

Read more: Yankees Make Special Yoshinobu Yamamoto Gesture, Go Above And Beyond in Japanese Ace Pursuit

All in all, the Yankees are playing a smart game with regard to the Japanese ace.

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