Baseball analysts highlight the Yankees’ first World Series appearance in 15 years, in 2024, although their championship drought dates back to 2009. Observers highlighted their five-game loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers, focusing especially on the defensive errors of the decisive fifth game.
At the recent General Managers’ Meetings, Yankees General Manager Brian Cashman acknowledged several of the team’s deficiencies, most notably in base play and defensive consistency. However, he highlighted the team’s success in winning the American League pennant and reaching the World Series.
Sources indicate that the team’s goal in the offseason is to build a squad capable of not only returning to the World Series, but also achieving a championship. Financial analysts noted that Gerrit Cole exercised his four-year, $144 million option, a decision that keeps the terms of his contract intact without the need for new negotiations.
With Cole’s status resolved, experts suggest the Yankees’ attention will now turn to resolving multiple roster issues during this critical offseason.
Yankees bleed as many players become free agents
Industry analysts highlight several key players on the Yankees roster set to enter free agency, with Juan Soto topping the list as the top available talent. Along with him there are significant losses, such as second baseman and lead hitter Gleyber Torres, as well as Clay Holmes, Tommy Kahnle and Tim Hill.
Baseball experts predict that retaining Soto will be the Yankees’ top priority, and that this pursuit will likely determine the rest of their offseason moves. General manager Brian Cashman confirmed the team’s intention to focus on re-signing Soto during recent media sessions, while also acknowledging the possibility of exploring other market options.
Cashman also outlined the Yankees’ contingency plans, saying they are prepared to look for other roster upgrades if negotiations with Soto fail. Sources indicate that the team is keeping an eye on available players who could help bolster various aspects of its roster.
These free agent decisions could significantly impact the Yankees’ midfield and bullpen. The possible departure of Torres would affect both the lineup construction and the defensive lineup, while the loss of three key relievers could require a substantial overhaul of the bullpen.
Juan Soto is the main objective of the Yankees
Industry analysts believe that the Yankees’ most pressing need is to get two middle-order hitters. While retaining Juan Soto could fill one of those spots, the team will still need a complementary power bat. First base looms as a logical target, especially after the decline of Anthony Rizzo’s option and the position’s disappointing .216/.284/.335 offensive production in 2024.
Internal solutions are being considered at second base, and General Manager Brian Cashman mentioned prospect Caleb Durbin during recent GM meetings. Likewise, left field can be addressed internally, with top prospect Jasson Dominguez appearing ready for a regular role. Financial experts point to signs from owner Hal Steinbrenner of reducing payroll by 2025, making these positions potential areas for cost savings.
Baseball analysts highlight the Yankees’ success in building an effective bullpen on a small budget, as evidenced by the emergence of Luke Weaver and the exercise of his $2.5 million option. Industry observers consider big investments in relievers like Jeff Hoffman or trade target Devin Williams unlikely, but the return of Tim Hill is seen as a reasonable and affordable option.
As for starting pitchers, six potential candidates are competing for five spots in the rotation: Gerrit Cole, Néstor Cortés, Luis Gil, Carlos Rodón, Clarke Schmidt and Marcus Stroman. However, evaluators point to several durability issues, including Cole and Schmidt’s 2024 injuries, Cortes’ late-season flexor strain, Rodón’s injury history, and Gil’s highest innings total. his career, suggesting the need for greater rotation depth.
Baseball analysts highlight the increased risk of injury for Yankee pitchers following their prolonged postseason run, pointing to the short recovery period despite heavy workloads. Although the rotation appears deep, experts warn that the condensation of the offseason could exacerbate existing durability concerns, prompting closer scrutiny of the starting pitching market.
Industry observers have outlined the Yankees’ offseason priorities in a clear order: re-signing Juan Soto tops the list, followed by the need for a strong first baseman, bullpen upgrades, rotation reinforcement, resolving midfield positions, outfield adjustments and general improvement of squad depth.
Financial projections from Cot’s Baseball Contracts estimate the Yankees’ fiscal 2025 payroll at $238.8 million, which is a significant drop from their 2024 figure of about $320 million. Market analysts estimate that, with a hypothetical payroll cap of $300 million, the team would have about $70 million to spend. However, most of this allocation would likely go toward a potential Soto contract, limiting his ability to address other areas of need.
Industry experts present two possible scenarios for the offseason: If the Yankees manage to retain Soto, they could focus on minimal moves, despite the multiple needs of the roster. However, if they fail to secure his services, they could go on to look for several high-level free agents, such as Pete Alonso or Alex Bregman. Analysts say this strategy of replacing one star with several is more typical of small-market teams than the Yankees’ traditional approach.
Who are the best fit for the Yankees’ roster renewal plan?
Industry analysts note that the Yankees’ offseason strategy remains uncertain until Juan Soto’s future is resolved, as his situation will significantly dictate his subsequent moves. Although Soto is their top priority, experts point to several potential alternatives, although they stress that these options could change depending on Soto’s decision.
As for Chicago White Sox pitcher Garrett Crochet, industry sources believe a trade is increasingly likely rather than speculative. After showing a performance close to that of an elite pitcher in 2024 and with two years remaining on his contract, analysts suggest that the Yankees, who have just participated in the World Series, could be interested in pursuing him. Reports indicate that top prospect Jasson Dominguez, while highly valued, could be part of trade talks for an elite talent like Crochet.
Baseball insiders also mention Tampa Bay’s Brandon Lowe as a possible target, citing the Rays’ history of trading their highest-paid players. With Lowe’s $10.5 million salary the largest on Tampa Bay’s 2025 payroll, experts highlight his positional flexibility at both first and second base, as well as his left-handed power, which would align well with the dimensions of Yankee Stadium. While cross-division trades are traditionally complex, analysts suggest such hurdles may not preclude a potential deal between these American League East rivals.
Industry analysts point to the Yankees’ historical tendency to make significant investments in relief pitching, citing their past high-value contracts with Zack Britton and Aroldis Chapman. Experts suggest free agent Tanner Scott could help solve the Yankees’ bullpen’s strikeout percentage issues in 2024, potentially using him as a closer and maximizing Luke Weaver’s flexibility in high-leverage situations.
Reports also highlight the availability of 35-year-old Japanese pitcher Tomoyuki Sugano as an unrestricted free agent. Baseball insiders see parallels between Sugano’s long tenure with the Yomiuri Giants, often compared to Japan’s version of the Yankees, and former successful New York signings like Hideki Matsui and Masahiro Tanaka. Analysts compare Sugano’s pitching style to that of former Yankee Hiroki Kuroda, fueling speculation about possible interest from the organization.
At first base, comparisons between Pete Alonso and Christian Walker show opposite strengths. Defensive metrics favor Walker for his elite outfield skills, addressing a major postseason vulnerability, while still offering power production with 30-homer potential. Market watchers suggest that Walker’s age – he turns 34 in March – could result in a shorter contract than Alonso’s, providing better value despite having less star power.
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