Yankees fans expected the best when GM Brian Cashman announced that New York would offer Aaron Judge a contract extension prior to Opening Day. It took until the final two days before Opening Day for news to heat up, but reports began flying in about the Yankees’ huge offer to the outfielder. But Judge reportedly turned town their proposal and will enter 2022 in a contract season. Aaron Judge is betting on himself.

There are cases of this strategy working out well, and others not so much. Former Mets outfielder Michael Conforto bet on himself last year and he is now sitting on the couch waiting for a contract. But for others, playing in the final season of a contract has been rather prosperous.

And therein lies the motivation for Judge’s decision.

Betting on Yourself… Is it Worth it?

Aaron Judge could have gladly accepted the 7-year, $213.5 million dollar contract that the Yankees offered him. That is life-changing money and is far more than us mere mortals can ever hope to make. But when you are capable of mashing 50-plus home runs in the MLB, taking a chance could prove worthwhile.

One example of someone who earned the bag following a contract season stems from one of the most controversial players in the MLB: Trevor Bauer.