The Yankees signed Zach Britton last weekend. The contract terms are, of course, a little complex, with Scott Boras negotiating what he has termed a “swellopt”. Britton will make $26 million over the first two years of his deal, after which the Yankees can either tack on a fourth guaranteed year worth $14 million, or simply let Britton play out his third contract year at $13 million. If the Yankees opt against the fourth year, Britton can decide whether to play out the third year or opt out for free agency.
The swellopt provides both some upside for the Yankees in case Britton is great and some security for Britton in case he struggles.