TAMPA, Fla. — Gerrit Cole says he always intended to remain with the New York Yankees. The 34-year-old right-hander exercised his right to opt out of his contract on the third day after the World Series, giving up $144 million over four years and starting a two-day window for the team to void the opt by adding a $36 million salary for 2029.

New York Yankees right-hander pitcher Gerrit Cole opted out of his four-year, $144 million contract back in November. To prevent Cole from reaching free agency, the Yankees’ only initial option was to void his opt-out and offer a one-year,

Cole created a stir after opting out of remainder of his deal when the 2024 season ended. "The intention wasn't to do anything but stay," Cole said on Wednesday.