3 Reasons why the Matt Holiday signing makes sense

A few days ago, the New York Yankees agreed to terms with outfielder Matt Holiday on a one year deal worth $13 million. Holiday, who is represented by Scott Boras, became a free agent after the St. Louis Cardinals declined his $17 million team option for 2017. Following the announcement of the signing, there was a public outcry by many Yankee fans who had hoped for higher-tiered free agents. 

 

In this article, we will provide three reasons as to why the Matt Holiday deal makes sense for the Yankees organization moving forward. 

1. Matt Holiday is not COMPLETELY washed up

- In 2016, Holiday slugged 20 home runs in 110 games played, so the power potential is still there. As someone who has reached the 30 home run plateau just twice in his 13-year career, Yankee fans should not be expecting a big time slugger. However, in Yankee Stadium, a field notorious for being hitter-friendly, Holiday will be given the chance to perform very well. The 7-time All-Star has predominately been a left fielder throughout his luxurious career, but saw some time at first base in 2016. In addition, as a result of the American League rules and Holiday's recent injury history, he may see substantial time as the team's designated hitter. The previous designated hitters, Carlos Beltran and Brian McCann, have taken their talents over to the Houston Astros, so the spot is certainly available. 

2. It is JUST a one year deal

- While the Red Sox are making moves left and right to beef up their club, the Yankees simply gave a one year deal to a player that is likely past his glory days. With that being said, it is hard to get upset at ANY one year deal, considering the small level of commitment to the player. Holiday has averaged at least 20 home runs in 10 of the last 11 seasons, so the strong track record is there. In a worst case scenario, the Yankees have another asset that they could ship off at the 2016 trade deadline in their quest to replenish the farm system.  

3. It is all about 2019 and beyond

- It is apparent that the Yankees hope to remain competitive over the next few years, but given the depleted roster full of weak pitching, veteran bats, and unproven talent, that scenario seems unlikely. As a one year deal, Holiday's merely represents a stop-gap option as the Yankees begin to salivate over the 2018 free agent class.

This class includes the following players: Manny Machado, Josh Donaldson, Dee Gordon, Jose Iglesias, Bryce Harper, Andrew McCutchen, A.J. Pollock, Michael Brantley, Adam Jones, Clayton Kershaw, Matt Harvey, Dallas Keuchel, Jose Quintana, Craig Kimbrel, and Andrew Miller, among others. 

By that time, Yankee fans will be clamoring for all of the payroll flexibility in the world, so a potentially "large" contract from the current free agent class could hamper the team's ability to spend in that off-season. This is the main reason as to why I believe that Matt Holiday makes sense over a player like Edwin Encarnacion, as it helps the Yankees in the short-term without affecting their future payroll after 2017.