New York Yankees’ already eventful offseason could become even more interesting after the World Series. This is when the Yankees will have to make a decision about the future of left-hand pitcher Zack Britton.
According to George A. King III of the New York Post, Britton has an unusual clause in his deal that forces Yankees to decide on his $14 million club option for 2022 after this year’s World Series. If the team picks up the option, this means that they will have him under contract for two more years. If not, the two-times All-Star can opt-out of his contract and become a free agent this offseason.
Britton confirmed the exitance of the clause to the NY Post.
“As I understand the contract, the Yankees have until the third day following the end of the World Series to extend my contract for $27 million,” said Britton. “If they decline to extend, I can either choose to extend the contract for 2021 or opt out of the contract.”
According to Britton, he still hasn’t heard anything from the Yankees but is prepared for all of the possible outcomes.
“Yankees have the first crac,.” he added. “I have not had any discussions regarding my contract with the Yankees. I will connect with [agent] Scott Boras in the coming days and talk about all the possible scenarios.”
While NY Yankees didn’t give any hints about their intentions, it wouldn’t be surprising if they end up keeping Zack Britton on board for two more years. Britton has been a solid contributor for the team in the past years and has put a good showing in 2020. The 32-year-old pitcher finished the regular season with a 1.89 ERA and 16 strikeouts while being dependable in the postseason as well.
Before joining the Yankees in 2018, Britton spent seven years with the Baltimore Orioles. He has two All-Star nods while also receiving the AL Reliever of the Year award in 2016.
