When Free agency resumed in MLB, Carlos Correa was heavily rumored to sign for the New York Yankees. But, in the end, Correa surprised everyone by signing for the Minnesota Twins for a massive amount. Many people still believe that the Yankees were not able to sign Correa due to his high wages.

However, the money was not the only issue why the Yankees passed on the star Shortstop. The reason is way bigger and quite obvious for the Yankees to not sign Correa. His previous comments on a Yankees legend might have robbed him of a lucrative contract with the Pinstripes.

Notably, the two-time All-Star shortstop signed a three-year deal with the Twins for $105.3 million, with an option to opt out in the first two years of his contract.

Carlos Correa insulted the Yankees legend Derek Jeter

Even before the MLB lockout, the former Houston Astros Shortstop made some shocking and insulting comments about the Hall of Famer, Derek Jeter. The Twins shortstop was very critical of Jeter’s legacy in MLB. 

As per CBS Sports, Correa said that Jeter did not deserve to win five Gold Glove Awards. “Derek Jeter, how many Gold Gloves did he win? Five, I think he won. … Derek Jeter didn’t deserve any,” said Correa.

Read more: New York Yankees Were Ready to Sign Carlos Correa Until Last Minute Disagreement

Notably, this disrespect to their iconic player must have been one of the reasons why the Yankees decided to not go after Correa. While there is another major factor, the Yankees were not ready for a short-term deal with Correa. 

According to MLB.com, the current CBT payroll of the Yankees is over $250 million. Had they signed Correa, the payroll would have crossed the $270 million mark. And such a scenario would have forced the Yankees to pay the non-financial penalty. This was the major reason why the Yankees let go of Correa.

WATCH THIS STORY: Revealed: How Minnesota Twins signed Carlos Correa quickly to beat New York Yankees and Chicago Cubs

Notably, Jeter is one of the greatest ever to play for the Yankees. In his 20 years of MLB career, Jeter has led the Yankees to multiple titles. And in 2021, the Yankees legend also got his Hall of Fame induction. Jeter won the AL Gold Glove in 2004, 2005, 2006, 2009, and 2010.