Yankees linked to former Cy Young winner as potential Gerrit Cole replacement

The New York Yankees have a busy offseason ahead, including several decisions regarding some of the club's biggest stars.

Everyone's eyes will be on the Juan Soto sweepstakes — as they should be — but there also is a storyline brewing pertaining to Yankees ace Gerrit Cole.

The reigning American League Cy Young winner has the ability to opt out of his contract this offseason. The Yankees can void that opt-out by exercising an option to tack on an extra year at the end of his current deal.

While that's most likely the scenario to take place, there is the extremely slight chance Cole hits free agency.

If he does, insiders from MLB.com believe the Yankees could pursue Baltimore Orioles ace Corbin Burnes this winter.

"The Mets and Yankees could be going to war over Soto and Burnes this winter, but only if Gerrit Cole opts out and leaves the Bronx (which I don’t think will happen). If Cole stays, I think the Yankees will spend their money to re-sign Soto -- or to replace him. If Cole leaves, then anything is possible," Mark Feinsand wrote.

Feinsand also mentioned how the Yankees might enjoy seeing the Mets sign Burnes. That type of move could put a dent in their chances to steal Soto, who is the Yankees' top priority this winter.

Burnes, the 2021 National League Cy Young winner, has proven to be a fantastic addition at the top of the Orioles starting rotation. In 30 starts, Burnes is 14-8 with a 3.06 ERA, 164 strikeouts, 44 walks and a 1.12 WHIP in 182.1 innings this season.

If the unexpected happens with Cole hitting free agency and signing elsewhere, Burnes would be a fine replacement option.