Decoding Yankees’ revival: Soto critical, best fits for roster revamp

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Baseball analysts highlight the Yankees’ first World Series appearance in 15 years in 2024, although their championship drought extends back to 2009. Observers noted their five-game loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers, focusing particularly on the defensive miscues in the decisive Game 5.

At the recent General Managers Meetings, Yankees General Manager Brian Cashman acknowledged several team shortcomings, notably in baserunning and defensive consistency. However, he pointed out the team’s success in clinching the American League pennant and reaching the World Series.

Sources indicate that the team’s offseason focus is on building a roster capable of not just returning to the World Series, but securing a championship. Financial analysts noted that Gerrit Cole exercised his four-year, $144 million option, a decision that keeps his contract terms intact without necessitating new negotiations.

With Cole’s status settled experts suggest that the Yankees’ attention will now turn to addressing multiple roster issues during this critical offseason.

Yankees bleed as many players turn free agents

Industry analysts highlight several key players from the Yankees’ roster set to enter free agency, with Juan Soto leading the list as the top available talent. Joining him are significant departures, including second baseman and leadoff hitter Gleyber Torres, as well as bullpen staples Clay Holmes, Tommy Kahnle, and Tim Hill.

Baseball experts predict that retaining Soto will be the Yankees’ top priority, with this pursuit likely shaping 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 acknowledging the possibility of exploring other market options.

Cashman also outlined the Yankees’ contingency plans, stating they are prepared to seek other roster upgrades if negotiations with Soto fall through. Sources indicate the team is monitoring available players who could help strengthen various aspects of their roster.

These free-agent decisions could significantly impact the Yankees’ middle infield and bullpen. Torres’ potential departure would affect both lineup construction and defensive alignment, while the loss of three key relievers could require a substantial overhaul of the bullpen.

Juan Soto is Yankees’ foremost target

Industry analysts identify the Yankees’ most pressing need as securing two middle-order hitters. While retaining Juan Soto could address one of those spots, the team will still require a complementary power bat. First base emerges as a logical target, especially following the decline of Anthony Rizzo’s option and the position’s underwhelming .216/.284/.335 offensive production in 2024.

Internal solutions for second base are under consideration, with General Manager Brian Cashman mentioning prospect Caleb Durbin during recent GM meetings. Similarly, left field may be addressed internally, with top prospect Jasson Domínguez appearing ready for a regular role. Financial experts point to owner Hal Steinbrenner’s signals of a reduced payroll for 2025, making these positions potential areas for cost-saving moves.

Baseball analysts highlight the Yankees’ success in constructing an effective bullpen on a budget, as evidenced by Luke Weaver’s emergence and the exercise of his $2.5 million option. Industry observers consider major investments in relievers like Jeff Hoffman or trade target Devin Williams unlikely, but Tim Hill’s return is seen as a reasonable, affordable option.

In terms of starting pitching, six potential candidates are competing for five rotation spots: Gerrit Cole, Nestor Cortes, Luis Gil, Carlos Rodón, Clarke Schmidt, and Marcus Stroman. However, evaluators note several durability concerns, including Cole and Schmidt’s injuries in 2024, Cortes’s late-season flexor strain, Rodón’s injury history, and Gil’s career-high innings total, suggesting the need for additional rotation depth.

Baseball analysts highlight the increased injury risks for Yankees pitchers following their extended postseason run, noting the short recovery period despite heavy workloads. While the rotation appears deep, experts warn that the condensed offseason could exacerbate existing durability concerns, prompting a closer look at the starting pitcher market.

Industry observers have outlined the Yankees’ offseason priorities in clear order: re-signing Juan Soto tops the list, followed by the need for a strong first baseman, bullpen upgrades, rotation reinforcement, resolving middle infield positions, outfield adjustments, and overall roster depth improvement.

Financial projections from Cot’s Baseball Contracts estimate the Yankees’ 2025 competitive balance tax payroll at $238.8 million, a significant decrease from their 2024 figure of around $320 million. Market analysts calculate that with a hypothetical $300 million payroll ceiling, the team would have roughly $70 million to spend. However, most of this allocation would likely go toward a potential Soto contract, limiting their ability to address other areas of need.

Industry insiders present two potential offseason scenarios: if the Yankees successfully retain Soto, they may focus on minimal moves, despite multiple roster needs. However, if they fail to secure his services, they might pivot to pursuing multiple high-profile free agents, like Pete Alonso or Alex Bregman. Analysts note that this strategy of replacing one star with several others is more typical of small-market teams than the Yankees’ traditional approach.

Who are the best fits for the Yankees’ roster revamp plan?

Industry analysts note that the Yankees’ offseason strategy remains uncertain until Juan Soto’s future is settled, as his situation will significantly dictate their subsequent moves. While Soto is their top priority, experts point to several potential alternatives, though they emphasize that these options could change depending on Soto’s decision.

Regarding Chicago White Sox pitcher Garrett Crochet, industry sources believe a trade is increasingly likely rather than speculative. After showcasing near-ace caliber performance in 2024 and with two years remaining on his contract, analysts suggest the Yankees, coming off a World Series appearance, may be keen to pursue him. Reports indicate that top prospect Jasson Domínguez, while highly valued, could be part of trade discussions for 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 as 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 Yankee Stadium’s dimensions. While intra-division trades are traditionally complex, analysts suggest such obstacles might not prevent a potential deal between these American League East rivals.

Industry analysts point to the Yankees’ historical tendency to make significant investments in relief pitching, referencing their past high-value contracts with Zack Britton and Aroldis Chapman. Experts suggest that free agent Tanner Scott could help address the Yankees’ bullpen’s strikeout rate issues in 2024, with the potential to use him as a closer while 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 note parallels between Sugano’s long tenure with the Yomiuri Giants, often likened 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 former Yankee Hiroki Kuroda, fueling speculation of potential interest from the organization.

At first base, comparisons between Pete Alonso and Christian Walker showcase contrasting strengths. Defensive metrics favor Walker for his elite fielding skills, addressing a significant postseason vulnerability while still offering power production with a 30-homer potential. Market observers suggest that Walker’s age—turning 34 in March—could lead to a shorter contract than Alonso’s, providing better value despite having less star power.

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