A fascinating take on the numbers - thanks, you guys!

My own opinion is that the Yanks can absolutely win on a payroll of $188.99M, so who cares? AFAIK, there's no young hitter on the market in 2013 or 2014 who would justify a ridiculous, long-term, A-Rod-sized-or-close contract. While there might be lots of pitchers who could command Burnett-level money, the Red Sox were able to sign a couple such guys without getting to $189M, so what is there to worry about? Doesn't sound like the limit will limit the Yanks' moves.

It will be fascinating what they do with Cano.

[1] Sure, the Yankees can win with a $189mn payroll, but why should they limit themselves? Also, what happens if one or more high price players gets injured? Will Yanks not replace them because of self imposed budget? I get why the Yankees want to dip below the threshold in 2014, but if it really is a long-term position, it will be hard to justify. The Yankees have profited greatly under the old system, and the new system does nothing to detract from that. If the Yankees' main goal is to bolster bottom line, it won't sit well with much of the fan base, IMHO.