Multiple reports indicate Red Sox, Yankees could start bidding war for Cy Young winner

The Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees have one of the fiercest rivalries in sports, and this winter, both clubs could be involved in an epic bidding war.

Boston desperately needs to land a bonafide ace this offseason. However, in order to land a top free agent starter, Red Sox owner John Henry will dig deep into his pockets, something he has been reluctant to do recently.

The Yankees’ top priority this winter is signing superstar Juan Soto, but that doesn’t mean they won’t look to shake up the starting shortstop market. Could the Yankees outbid the Red Sox for a highly coveted hurler expected to join boston?

“Beyond Soto, what Boston really needs most is pitching,” ESPN’s Jeff Passan wrote Friday. “Even with Lucas Giolito expected to return from elbow surgery, they need a starting pitcher to lead their rotation,” Passan continued. “There are plenty available. And if they pick wisely, the Red Sox have a chance to be scary sooner rather than later. Perfect trade: Sign free agent lefty Blake Snell.”

Snell posted a 76-58 record with a 3.19 ERA, 2.76 strikeout/walk ratio, .210 batting average against and a 1.22 WHIP over his nine-year career , during which time he played for the Tampa Bay Rays, San Diego Padres, and San Francisco Giants.

Let’s assume the Yankees fail to sign Soto, which is a real possibility. In that case, they will look to acquire Snell, Max Fried or Corbin Burnes, according to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, who reported the news on Bleacher Report’s Walk-Off on Wednesday.

Landing Snell won’t be cheap. The two-time Cy Young recipient’s estimated market value is around $160 million on a five-year deal, which translates to nearly $32 million annually. according to MLB Trade Rumors.

Things could get interesting this winter if Soto signs anywhere but the Yankees. If there is a bidding war for Snell between the Bronx and Boston this winter, it’s hard to imagine the Red Sox outbidding the richest team in baseball. Then again, they are fierce rivals, so maybe we could see Henry build up the capital to push the gifted southpaw.

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