Yankees’ $218M Ace Admits Near-Deal with Red Sox: “It Was Close”

Yankees’ $218M Ace Admits Near-Deal with Red Sox: “It Was Close”

In a stunning revelation that will leave Yankees and Red Sox fans alike imagining what could have been, New York’s $218 million ace recently admitted that he was on the verge of signing with Boston before ultimately choosing the Bronx.

During a candid interview, the star pitcher—who has become a cornerstone of the Yankees’ rotation—discussed the intense negotiations with the Red Sox and how, for a brief moment, it seemed like he might be heading to Fenway Park instead of Yankee Stadium. “It was close,” he admitted. “At one point, I really thought I was going to be wearing a Red Sox uniform.”

While details of the contract discussions remain undisclosed, sources indicate that Boston aggressively pursued the elite right-hander, offering a deal that was highly competitive. The Red Sox’s front office, eager to bolster their pitching staff, saw him as a game-changer who could elevate their rotation to championship contention.

So, what changed his mind? According to the ace, multiple factors played a role in his final decision. “Obviously, money is important, but it wasn’t just about that,” he said. “The Yankees’ history, the fan base, and the vision they had for me really stood out. Talking to some of the guys on the team and understanding the culture made a big difference.”

Had he joined the Red Sox, it would have been a seismic shift in the fierce rivalry between the two AL East powerhouses. Over the years, there have been several instances of players switching sides—most famously Babe Ruth, Johnny Damon, and Jacoby Ellsbury—but the thought of this ace donning a Red Sox jersey is one that will now remain in the realm of “what if.”

Yankees fans, of course, are relieved that their ace landed in New York. Since signing his massive contract, he has lived up to expectations, solidifying himself as a dominant force on the mound and a leader in the clubhouse. Meanwhile, Red Sox fans are left to wonder how different their team’s fortunes might have been if he had chosen Boston instead.

For now, though, he remains a Yankee, and his presence ensures that the rivalry will only continue to burn hotter in the seasons to come. With every start he makes against the Red Sox, there will always be that lingering question: What if?