Ex-Yankees moves: Ron’s reunion, JD joins Angels while 5 stare at future

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As the 2025 MLB season rapidly approaches, the offseason continues to be a time of great movement and reshuffling for several former New York Yankees players. Some have found new homes with different teams, while others remain in the open market, hoping to secure a contract before the season begins. The Yankees, known for their dynamic roster and keen eye for talent, have seen several familiar faces depart, making room for new opportunities and, in some cases, marking the end of chapters in their careers.

In this feature, we delve into the latest player transactions involving ex-Yankees, including reliever Ron Marinaccio’s move to the San Diego Padres, infielder J.D. Davis’ journey to the Los Angeles Angels, and the still-available free agents who may find their way back into the Yankees’ fold. These moves reflect the constantly evolving landscape of Major League Baseball and provide insight into the future prospects of these former Bronx Bombers.

Ron Marinaccio’s journey: From Yankees to Padres

One of the most significant moves in recent days has been Ron Marinaccio’s acquisition by the San Diego Padres. Marinaccio, a 29-year-old right-handed pitcher from Toms River, New Jersey, has been a part of the Yankees organization since 2017, after being drafted in the 19th round. He made his MLB debut in 2022, posting an impressive 2.05 ERA in 40 appearances, which solidified his status as a promising bullpen piece for the Yankees.

However, the 2024 season proved challenging for Marinaccio, as he struggled to maintain his place on the New York active roster. Despite flashing potential in Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, where he posted a 2.04 ERA and 41 strikeouts over 35 outings, Marinaccio was DFA’d by the Yankees in September to make room for right-hander Cody Poteet. The move led to his brief stint with the Chicago White Sox, where he was again designated for assignment, only to be quickly scooped up by the Padres.

Marinaccio’s trade to San Diego came just two days after being designated for assignment by the White Sox. In exchange for Marinaccio, the Padres sent cash considerations to the White Sox, giving Marinaccio a fresh start with a new team. Interestingly, Marinaccio will find himself surrounded by a number of familiar faces in San Diego, including former Yankees pitchers Michael King, Wandy Peralta, Randy Vásquez, and Jhony Brito, along with utility man Tyler Wade. This close-knit group of former Yankees players could help ease Marinaccio’s transition into the Padres’ clubhouse.

“Being able to join a team with so many familiar faces makes the transition a bit easier for me,” Marinaccio said. “I’m excited for this new opportunity and ready to get back to my best on the mound.”

While Marinaccio will need to continue developing consistency, his potential is clear. His high strikeout rate and ability to handle pressure situations give him a strong foundation for success in San Diego.

J.D. Davis’ fifth move in two years

J.D. Davis, another former Yankee, continues his journey across MLB teams with a move to the Los Angeles Angels. The infielder, who has played for the San Francisco Giants, Oakland A’s, and New York Yankees in the past two years, has signed a minor league contract with the Angels and will compete for a spot on the team’s Opening Day roster.

Davis, 31, had a brief stint with the Yankees in 2024. The Bombers acquired him after Anthony Rizzo suffered an injury, hoping Davis could contribute as a first baseman against left-handed pitching. However, Davis’ time with New York was short-lived. He appeared in just seven games and made 22 plate appearances, struggling to make an impact. After the Yankees acquired Jazz Chisholm, Davis was DFA’d, marking the end of his time in the Bronx.

Prior to his time with the Yankees, Davis was released by the San Francisco Giants following their signing of third baseman Matt Chapman. Davis had won a $6.9 million arbitration hearing with the Giants, but his salary was not fully guaranteed, which contributed to his release. He then spent some time with the Oakland A’s before eventually joining the Yankees.

Davis’ move to the Angels marks his fifth team in just two years, and his journey reflects the volatility that many players experience in today’s MLB. With a minor league contract and an invitation to Spring Training, Davis will compete for a spot with the Angels, hoping to contribute to their infield depth.

Free agents still available: Could they return to the Yankees?

While some former Yankees have found new homes, others remain unsigned and still have the potential to return to the Bronx. Among the notable free agents are Anthony Rizzo and Alex Verdugo, both of whom struggled to meet expectations during their time with the Yankees. Rizzo, who was acquired from the Cubs in 2021, faced injury issues and was unable to maintain the form that made him a perennial All-Star. Verdugo, on the other hand, was inconsistent, failing to make a lasting impact after his trade from Boston.

Other former Yankees free agents include relievers Tim Hill, Tommy Kahnle, and Tim Mayza. The team has already made strides to replace some of these players by adding former MVP winners Cody Bellinger and Paul Goldschmidt. However, Hill and Kahnle’s potential return remains a possibility. The Yankees currently do not have any left-handed relievers in their bullpen, a position of need that could see Hill re-signing, especially considering his strong finish to the 2024 season.

Hill’s return would help solidify a bullpen that the Yankees are hoping to rely on heavily in 2025. The team has also expressed interest in bringing back Kahnle, though competition from other teams could complicate matters.

Meanwhile, Mayza, who was non-tendered by the Yankees in November, remains a free agent. While there’s a slim chance he could return, the Yankees’ decision to not extend a contract last fall suggests that Mayza’s time with the team may have come to an end.

The ever-evolving Yankees roster

As we look ahead to the 2025 season, the New York Yankees’ roster continues to evolve. The departures of several key contributors, such as Rizzo, Verdugo, and others, signal a shift in the team’s strategy. The arrival of veterans like Bellinger and Goldschmidt shows the Yankees’ commitment to competing at the highest level while simultaneously seeking to build for the future with young talent.

For players like Marinaccio and Davis, the offseason represents new opportunities to revive their careers and contribute to their new teams. While some former Yankees remain in free agency, the moves of this offseason serve as a reminder that the landscape of Major League Baseball is always shifting, with familiar faces often finding new homes.

As the Yankees’ roster continues to take shape, fans can expect more changes, but with the hope that the additions and subtractions will ultimately lead to a successful 2025 season. Whether through trades, free-agent signings, or the development of younger talent, the Yankees are preparing for a season of transformation and renewed championship aspirations.

Will any of them return to the Bronx? What do you think?

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