SEATTLE — In a bombshell development that has rocked the MLB world, CBS Sports reported this morning that the Seattle Mariners’ franchise pitcher has officially terminated his contract with the team after a heated dispute over a proposed two-year extension. The move comes amid behind-the-scenes chaos that may have just cost the Mariners their ace — and left the New York Yankees scratching their heads.
The report, released early Friday, reveals that contract talks between the pitcher and Mariners management broke down late Thursday evening, leading the player to exercise a termination clause reportedly tied to performance-based escalators and front-office stability assurances — both of which allegedly went unfulfilled.
What’s more explosive? CBS Sports also confirmed that the Mariners and Yankees were already deep into negotiations for a blockbuster three-year, $72.7 million contract that would have sent the pitcher to New York in a stunning cross-country relocation. According to league insiders, all signs pointed to the deal being completed by this weekend.
But then — it unraveled.
Yankees Head Coach Pulls the Plug
Sources say the Yankees’ head coach — known for his hands-on involvement in roster moves — personally intervened and shut down the deal, citing long-term clubhouse chemistry and skepticism over the pitcher’s recent elbow soreness.
> “This organization has always valued stability and health,” a source close to the team said. “There was concern about paying top dollar for someone who may not give you 100 innings in the next season.”
The decision blindsided several Yankees executives who reportedly had already begun informal discussions on integrating the pitcher into their rotation.
What This Means for Seattle
For the Mariners, the fallout could be seismic. This pitcher wasn’t just a fan favorite — he was the face of the franchise, a multi-time All-Star and Cy Young candidate who carried the club through multiple playoff pushes.
Now, with his contract terminated and no trade value to leverage, Seattle is left reeling — both on the field and in public relations. The Mariners front office has yet to release an official statement, but sources within T-Mobile Park suggest a press conference could happen within the next 24 hours.
Meanwhile, fans have taken to social media to express everything from heartbreak to outright anger, demanding accountability from ownership and the GM.
What’s Next for the Pitcher?
Though the Yankees deal fell through, don’t expect the ace to stay on the market long. Multiple playoff contenders — including the Los Angeles Dodgers, Atlanta Braves, and Houston Astros — have already reportedly made informal inquiries as news broke.
One thing is clear: This saga is far from over. But for now, Seattle has lost its crown jewel, and MLB’s free agent scene just got its biggest storyline of the year