MLB Investigates Yankees and Mets Over Improper Communication.
This past week, the MLBPA has requested an investigation to look into a report on improper communication involving free agent and MVP Aaron Judge. It was reported that there was possible collusion between Yankees owner Hal Steinbrenner and Mets owner Steve Cohen. Both teams are expected to be bidders on Judge, which is why there is concern regarding the communication between the two clubs.
Major League Baseball Commissioner, Rob Manfred, quickly gave his remarks on how he is “confident” that there was no foul play involved in the communication between the two owners. However, per players association request, he is continuing with the investigation.
“I’m absolutely confident that the clubs behaved in a way that was consistent with the agreement. This was based on a newspaper report. We will put ourselves in a position to demonstrate credibly to the MLBPA that this is not an issue. I’m sure that’s going to be the outcome. But obviously we understand the emotion that surrounds that word [collusion] and we’ll proceed accordingly.”
Evan Drellich via The Athletic
It’s unknown if there would be any consequences for either team if there were any collusion found. But while the suspicion is low, it’s worth taking a look over. Especially when Aaron Judge will be singing a monster deal this offseason.
Aaron Judge Takes Home His First MVP Award.
Yesterday, Aaron Judge was awarded his first career Most Valuable Player Award after a historic 2022 season. This season was one to behold as the 30 year-old outfielder hit .311/.425/.686 with 62 home runs and 131 RBI. He received 28 out of 30 first place votes, with Shohei Ohtani coming in second place and receiving the other two votes. Judge set a new American League record with his 62 home runs, beating Roger Maris’ record of 61.
While the Yankees were swept and eliminated by the Houston Astros in the ALCS, they would not be there without Aaron Judge. The Yankees were on pace to set a single season win record early in the season, but a historically bad August let the lineup slip into a slump that lasted into September. However, Aaron Judge didn’t slow down. In September, Judge hit .417 with 10 home runs and scored 26 times in 25 games. This effort alone dragged the struggling lineup into October. While Judge’s bat fell silent in October, the ability to single-handedly bring your team to the postseason is MVP worthy itself.
The Hot Stove Will Be Heating Up Soon.
This incredible season followed by an MVP award means big money is coming for the free agent outfielder. The Yankees are deemed the favorite to bring back their homegrown star. But other teams have made it clear that they want in on the Aaron Judge sweepstakes. As suspected, the Mets are going to make an effort this winter to sign him. It has also been reported that the San Francisco Giants are also looking to be contenders for Judge. There haven’t been any reports on progress for any of these teams in their pursuit to sign the MVP slugger, but it is still early in the offseason, and the hot stove will inevitably start heating up soon.
Follow @Matt__Irish on Twitter for more Baseball News.
Get the latest sports news via Fantom Sports Industries. Follow us on twitter via @Fantom_sports. Like us on Facebook Fantom Sports Industries. Subscribe to our YouTube channel via Fantom Sports. Subscribe to our Newsletter! Shop Fantom Sports Industries Merch. Invest in your favorite athletes like stocks with “Prediction Strike!” Use code FANTOM when you sign up.
