The general manager of the New York Yankees, Brian Cashman, told reporters on Wednesday that he has been listening and discussing potential trades for this offseason. He also confirmed that the team’s current infield depth has resulted in several expressions of interest from other teams.
He added:
“We don’t have a right fielder. We don’t have a left fielder. I’d always like to improve the pitching. We have some kids pushing in on the infield, so there’ll be, I would think, probably a lot of exciting opportunities that could play out next spring in the middle infield.”
Aaron Judge, the team’s best hitter, is set to become a free agent this winter. His decision will have a big effect on the team’s plans for the future. Cashman told reporters:
“Optimally, if you could wave a magic wand, we would secure Aaron Judge and retain him and have him signed and happy and in the fold as soon as possible, But he’s a free agent. He’s earned the right to be a free agent. So he’ll dictate the dance steps.”
After an amazing 2022 season in which he hit record homers, Judge has “plenty of dance partners.” He hit 311 and had 62 home runs, 131 RBI, 133 runs, 16 stolen bases, and an OPS of 1.111. This season, the slugger led New York’s offense for long stretches, so his leaving would be a huge loss.
According to Spotrac, the Yankees’ payroll for the next season is already projected to be $181 million, and a deal for Judge won’t be cheap. The Yankees also need help in left field after Andrew Benintendi turned a free agent and also in first base after Anthony Rizzo opted out of his contract for 2023. They need to strengthen the bullpen too, as Aroldis Chapman, Zack Britton, and Chad Green are hitting free agency.
Cashman has earlier confirmed that the franchise is interested to re-sign Rizzo.
But with the possibility of going after one of the best starting pitchers on the market, like Justin Verlander, Carlos Rodon, or Jacob deGrom, the payroll could go up very quickly, depending on how New York handles free agency.
Given how many players are in the infield, though, a trade might be able to fill some of these needs without having to spend a lot of money on free agency. Still, the team’s whole plan for the offseason will likely depend at least in part on Judge’s choice.
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