New York Yankees closer Rafael Soriano may the utilize opt-out clause in his contract at the end of the season to seek a better deal, per CBS Sports. The 32-year-old right-hander is still owed a not insubstantial $14 million next season -- the final year of a three-year deal with the Yankees -- but opting out could afford him a larger, multi-year deal as one of the few reputable closers on the free agent market:

Soriano would be a setup man with David Robertson to all-time great closer Mariano Rivera if he returns next year. After saving 37 games in 40 opportunities, presumably he would be a hot player as a free agent, as Jose Valverde is the only comparable closer due to become a free agent.

Filling in for the injured Rivera, Soriano (2-1, 2.14) has excelled in the closer role this season, converting all but three save opportunities. The veteran right-hander would receive a $1.5 million buyout from the Yankees if he does invoke his opt-out clause, though doing so does not necessarily mean he will not re-sign with the Bronx Bombers.