Yankees News: 3 most team-friendly contracts

Most team-friendly contracts – No. 2: Adam Ottavino

In attempts to solidify the bullpen, Cashman signed Ottavino to a 3-year, $27 million contract before the 2019 season. Along with Zack Britton, Tommy Kahnle, and Aroldis Chapman, Ottavino would become a trustworthy go-to reliever for Aaron Boone.

After finishing his age 32 season, Ottavino hit free agency for the first time and decided to come back home to the Yankees, as he grew up in Brooklyn. He may have taken a hometown discount, but he was still able to cash in.

Ottavino finished the 2019 season with a 6-5 record in 73 games with a 1.90 ERA in 66.1 innings. One of Ottavino’s biggest concerns was driving up his pitch count and giving batter’s friendly counts to hit on. He walked 40 batters in 2019, which was a career-high.

Ottavino’s best quality was being able to work his way out of that trouble. There were several instances where he gave the opposing team the lead, but 90% of the time he was able to hold the lead, or at least not cause any further deficit.

For $9 million annually, Ottavino gives the Yankees a utility reliever. Although he mainly saw his role as the 6th or 7th inning guy, he can come in and pitch at any given time, including closing.

Cashman outdid himself with this contract, and it seems like it is going to work out well for the entire length.