Yankees fans should be grateful to Reggie Jackson for influencing the Astros to pass on signing Blake Snell, keeping the team's payroll in check. Jackson, along with other former athletes and the Astros' analytics team, advises Jim Crane on offseason moves, leading to a fiscally responsible approach that resulted in them declining Snell's contract demands. Despite the opportunity to acquire Snell and Josh Hader at a reasonable cost, the Astros opted out due to concerns over Snell's injury history and contract terms. Jackson's input highlighted the Astros' prudent financial decisions, contrasting with the Yankees' potential tax implications. The Astros' reluctance to pursue Snell clarifies that not every team viewed his deal as a significant win.

• Blake Snell's contract offer: 2-year deal worth around $62 million
• Astros' decision-makers: Four or five individuals involved in key choices

While Reggie Jackson's advice led to the Astros passing on Blake Snell, some may argue that Snell could have strengthened the team's roster, potentially offering a strategic advantage over competitors.

• Reggie Jackson, along with other former athletes, advises the Astros on offseason moves
• The Astros prioritize fiscal responsibility in decision-making, as demonstrated by their approach to the Snell deal

The Astros' decision to forgo Blake Snell may impact their pitching roster and overall competitiveness in the upcoming season, depending on how Snell performs with the Giants.

Reggie Jackson's influence on the Astros' decision-making process highlights the significance of financial prudence in building a competitive team, showcasing the complexities of balancing player acquisitions with budget constraints in professional sports.