Yankees' Management Blew it by Letting Didi Gregorius Go to Phillies on One-Year Deal

The New York Yankees are dead set on trying to acquire ace pitcher Gerrit Cole on what will likely be a record-breaking deal exceeding $300 million. While Cole is the obvious main priority, they lost a pivotal player in the post-Core Four era.

Shortstop Didi Gregorius rejoined former manager Joe Girardi in Philadelphia, as he signed a one-year, $14 million deal with the Phillies. Make no mistake about it, the Yankees blew it.

Gregorius had the unenviable task of replacing the void at shortstop left by Derek Jeter. Originally, he dealt with some growing pains in his first season. After that, he eased in and became one of the Yankees' more consistent hitters from 2016-18.

His most important season came in 2017, where he played the role of playoff hero. In Game 5 of the ALDS, Gregorius hit two home runs off Cleveland Indians ace Corey Kluber to help the Yankees come back from a 2-0 deficit to advance to ALCS.

This past year, Gregorius' time was limited due to Tommy John surgery and he had struggles returning to his usual form.

Once the regular season ended, the Yankees failed to give Gregorius a qualifying offer, but there was still hope a reunion could happen. The 29-year-old shortstop changed course by looking for a one-year prove-it deal in order increase his value next season.

Why couldn't the Yankees give him a similar offer like the Phillies did? Gregorius would've had the chance to get a full season's work, while competing for a World Series one last time in the Bronx.

Yet, the front office neglected him, and now have to find a way to fill the void.