The New York Yankees' biggest story this offseason has always been whether they will re-sign Juan Soto (and for good reason). Another story that could be just as important to the Yankees' future, however, is what happens to star player Gerrit Cole's contract.

The first component to finding out came to fruition on November 2nd, when ESPN Baseball Insider Kiley McDaniel mentioned the option to opt out, adding to the four years and $144 million Cole had left on his contract year and $36 million were added.”

While Cole's contract termination might be jarring for some fans, it was predicted by many insiders and the move is a smart financial decision on his part that doesn't necessarily signal a desire to leave the Yankees.

Cole's failure to cover first base in the disastrous 5th inning of Game 5 of the World Series (culminating New York's defensive collapse and ensuing five-run slide) could leave fans uneasy about their ace and the 2023 AL Cy Young Prize winners have left a bad taste in their mouths.

However, without Cole, the Yankees probably wouldn't have even made it to the World Series. For this reason, it is believed that the New York front office will opt to waive the waiver mentioned in McDaniel's post, which will then see Cole wear pinstripes through the 2029 season.

Therefore, Yankees fans need not be dismayed that Cole is opting out of his contract. At least not yet.