Yankees to Reportedly Meet With Gerrit Cole and Stephen Strasburg

Gerrit Cole -- pictured here in World Series with Astros -- will meet with Yankees in free agency
Gerrit Cole -- pictured here in World Series with Astros -- will meet with Yankees in free agency / Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images

Finally, some good news ahead of next week's Winter Meetings for the New York Yankees.

The Yanks seem likely to make a splash, especially as it pertains to their rotation. While the likes of Brian Cashman and Co. don't want to give away their hand, landing one of Gerrit Cole or Stephen Strasburg is a top priority. This team lacks of legitimate ace, and both of these players have led their team to the frequently mentioned World Series mountaintop, and performed admirably in doing so.

Per Ken Rosenthal, the Yankees are expected to meet with both pitchers in the coming days.

New York will not be alone in competing for their services. The Astros, Dodgers and Angels will all be in on Cole. The Padres are expected to meet with Strasburg, as well as the Nationals.

Yet, despite the ominous words of Hal Steinbrenner, the Yankees have the money to match their winning culture, and are so obviously lacking in one department that their fan base will revolt should they miss out on another top-line starter yet again.

There's some optimism Strasburg will pick his suitor at the Winter Meetings, while Cole's negotiations are likely to drag out as he seeks a record-breaking contract.

The hot stove is finally heating up to a respectable temperature.