Yankees: Michael Kay’s frustrating response to Francisco Lindor trade says it all

Yankees broadcaster Michael Kay was not happy after the Mets traded for Francisco Lindor.

When the New York Mets traded for Francisco Lindor on Thursday, New York Yankees fans weren’t mad that the team was unable to swing that deal. Instead, they further expressed frustration that general manager Brian Cashman largely remains inactive during what many would consider an opportunistic offseason for big market teams.

Additionally, it made everyone think about the ridiculous DJ LeMahieu contract negotiations and how we’re still at a standstill nearly three months into the Yankees’ offseason. LeMahieu’s decision is holding so many other potential transactions in limbo for Cashman and Co. And time is not on anyone’s side.

The Lindor trade also eliminated what many would consider the Yankees’ top backup plan in the event LeMahieu leaves. So now what? What if things come crashing down and the Bombers don’t end up with DJ? What about starting pitching?

There are so many questions, and, like the fans, Yankees broadcaster Michael Kay wants answers.

“Here’s the deal: I always felt a perfect Plan B if you didn’t sign DJ LeMahieu would be to pivot, get Francisco Lindor, move Gleyber Torres to second. Boom, you’ve improved your defense,” Kay said on ‘The Michael Kay Show’ Thursday.“I’ve always been very, very honest when people were saying, ‘Why aren’t they signing LeMahieu?’ I said, ‘Well, what’s the rush? The great (free agent) players are still out there. Trevor Bauer hasn’t signed. George Springer hasn’t signed. J.T. Realmuto hasn’t signed. And DJ hasn’t signed.’ Very slow-moving market. But if this slow-moving game of chicken that the Yankees and LeMahieu are playing with each other cost them the chance at Lindor, that’s a bad job.“You can’t sit here until February and allow DJ LeMahieu to make a decision. And if you’re DJ LeMahieu, you can’t sit there and let the Yankees play their game. They both have to come together: ‘What’s your best offer for me right now?’ And if DJ’s agent said (to the Yankees), ‘The only way we’re going to get this done is five years’ when he knows he’ll take four … They have to come to a come-to-Jesus meeting and say exactly what the deal is because if all of this posturing cost you your plan B, not good.“It’s at the point now where do it or get off the pot. ‘Are you going to sign with us or not? Are you going to make me an offer or not?’ Enough of the game.”

Well said, Michael. We’re unsure why the LeMahieu negotiations are taking this long. He has a limited market. There’s a clear middle ground that can be achieved, based on the reports that have emerged throughout the offseason.

And not to be selfish, but doesn’t LeMahieu understand he’s hurting his team (assuming he wants to return) by doing this? And don’t the Yankees realize they can make transactions while still planning for a worst-case contract scenario for LeMahieu (one where they’re paying him $20 million per year or more)? It just feels like nobody is looking at the bigger picture and it’s infuriating.

We’re glad Kay said something, because we’re sure fans are sick of yelling into the void.

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Is it more or less likely that the New York Yankees reunite with DJ LeMahieu after the New York Mets traded for Francisco Lindor? Do they care?