NJ.com | Brendan Kuty: There were plenty of parties involved in the courting of Gerrit Cole, Andy Pettitte, CC Sabathia and 324 million George Washingtons, to name a few. But new pitching coach Matt Blake also played a big role and impressed Cole when the Yankees met with him prior to him signing his record-breaking contract. Blake may not have major league experience in the dugout, but clearly, progressive pitchers like Cole see what he has to offer.
SNY | Garret Stepien: Cole’s $324-million deal means there will be a boatload of expectations, and fans will certainly decide whether the move is success based on World Series wins.