Around the Empire: Yankees news - 12/8/2019

SNY | Danny Abriano: The Yankees are apparently making such a big push to finally get Gerrit Cole in pinstripes that they have put all other issues on the back burner. They might have even accelerated the star righty’s timetable on when he is expected to sign. According to Jeff Passan, initial offers should come within the next few days (i.e., at the Winter Meetings).

SNY | Anthony McCarron: Speaking of the Winter Meetings, the Yankees look to have their hands full in San Diego this week. While atop the list is getting some Cole to stuff the teams’ stockings, Cashman nonetheless has other things to figure out this winter. McCarron lists seven things for Yankees fans to look out for beyond Cole, ranging from the likely (a Brett Gardner re-signing) to the fantasy (a trade for Francisco Lindor), and from the exciting (the aforementioned Lindor trade) to the dull (the backup catcher spot) and the disappointing (non-Cole pitching options).

New York Post | George King III: King listed three things of his own to watch out during the Winter Meetings. His first point falls into the “duh” category, as he mentions that Cole will be dominating the discussion. His second item is ho-hum, saying that the Yankees may kick the tires on options to replace Didi Gregorius, Austin Romine, and Dellin Betances despite feeling confident in their in-house replacements. Lastly, he raises the possibility of acquiring Addison Russell to replace Didi. It’s a no from me, fam.