Recently read something which kinda sums it up nicely - Yanks made a very tough decision. Paying a slight premium for Robertson’s New York experience and much bigger track record might be the right move. However, receiving the compensatory draft pick by letting Robertson walk is valuable. In the end, the Yankees valued the draft pick compensation from not resigning Robertson and the slight cost savings over the track record of Robertson and his familiarity with New York.
I've said it before, I'll say it again.... How many pitchers have been let go, traded away, or released by the Yankees that have been studs in their subsequent teams? Can't be too many...
Beyond the 4th year, DRob isn't looking over his shoulder at Betances. Face it....he was the rebound closer. Would have been a nice signing, but this avoids the closer role issue for a team that's gonna have some other major issues to deal with.
I'm Not sure if your saying, those players who have chosen to go elsewhere other than NY on their own, or by trade. The 1st two who come to mind, is but 1 Pitcher: Al Leiter. I remember seeing his very 1st Yanx debut. He was billed as the Yankx #1 Prospect then trade. Al hurt us when he was a Marlin. He did not hurt us so much in the subway W.S. but IMO was still quit a stud. With McGriff, we would of had no Donnie BB.
Either.... And he beat us that year, but my point is, the Yankees don't typically get hurt when a pitcher is either traded away or allowed to sign elsewhere....