Didi Gregorius Contract Demands Prove Yankees Should Look Elsewhere in Free Agency

There's been some speculation as to whether or not the Yankees would be pursuing free agent shortstop Didi Gregorius this offseason.

Well, Gregorius' contract demands have now been reported, and it may be in the best interest of the Bronx to let the 29-year-old walk.

Gregorius seems likely to get 14-15M a year on a multiyear, which may price out Reds, who like him but are covered there with Galvis, in case. Phillies, others thought to be in.
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) December 9, 2019

Gregorius is anticipated to make $14-15 million per season on a long-term deal, and while the Yankees likely wouldn't struggle to pay him, they may be better off investing those funds elsewhere. Especially if they hope to meet the extraordinarily-high asking price for coveted pitcher Gerrit Cole.

Yankees have a 7-year, $245M offer on the table for Gerrit Cole, per @BobKlap pic.twitter.com/Jk4lOZxWj3
— Bleacher Report MLB (@BR_MLB) December 8, 2019

Gregorius is a fan favorite in New York, having admirably stepped in and filled the gaping hole at shortstop left by club legend Derek Jeter. However, after a down-year in 2019, during which he only played 82 games after returning from offseason Tommy John surgery, it will be hard to justify giving Didi a contract of that size.

Not to mention, the Yankees already have a ton of infield talent and could shift Gleyber Torres back to shortstop in order to replace Didi, whilst utilizing DJ LeMahieu at second and Gio Urshela at third.

While fans may want to see Didi in pinstripes next year, there are vastly cheaper options the Yankees should explore.