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Rafael Soriano expected to opt out

Rafael Soriano will reportedly opt out of the final year of his contract on Wednesday. He's apparently seeking a four-year deal.

By Bryan Kilpatrick
Jared Wickerham

New York Yankees relief pitcher Rafael Soriano is expected to opt out of the final year of his deal on Wednesday, per CBS Sports' Jon Heyman.

Soriano is set to make $14 million in 2013, but has been said to be seeking a four-year contract, says Heyman. The Yankees could put a $13.3 million counter offer by Friday, which would represent a raise for Soriano after factoring in the $1.5 million he'll receive as a result of opting out.

After saving 42 games in 45 attempts in 2012, Soriano's stock has risen considerably. He took over as the Yankees' closer after Mariano Rivera suffered a season-ending injury in May. Rivera is reportedly considering retirement, which could make the Yankees more inclined to work out a two-year deal with Soriano. While that represents a difference between what the player wants and what the team is willing to give, it at least gives the Yankees a shot at retaining Soriano, according to Heyman.