The Yankees have plenty of questions to answer this offseason, but none are bigger than addressing the black hole at first base. Since Anthony Rizzo’s collision with Fernando Tatis Jr. in May 2023, which led to post-concussion syndrome and a decline in performance, Yankees first basemen have been statistically the worst in MLB.
Their .602 OPS over the past two seasons is a far cry from what’s expected of a position typically reserved for power hitters. With Rizzo’s option officially declined, the Yankees are tasked with finding a solution—whether it’s a blockbuster move, a savvy trade, or giving an in-house option a chance to shine.
Thus, Jon Heyman of the New York Post recently outlined the Yankees’ potential options to fix their first base problem, and his list includes free agents, trade targets, and internal candidates.
Free-agent market: Big names and bigger questions
Among the free agents available, Pete Alonso stands out. The Mets slugger has smashed 226 home runs since debuting in 2019 and has proven he can thrive under New York’s spotlight. But Alonso is coming off a down season, and his right-handed bat might not complement Aaron Judge in the lineup. Plus, his likely sky-high contract demands could deter the Yankees, especially if they’re focusing on Juan Soto’s free agency.
Christian Walker brings Gold Glove defense and consistent power, but he’s 34 and might not offer the longevity the Yankees need. Carlos Santana, fresh off a Gold Glove at age 38, could be a short-term option, but the Yankees may hesitate to add another aging bat.
Paul Goldschmidt, the 2022 NL MVP, offers veteran experience but is coming off his worst season. At 37, he represents another short-term gamble for a team looking to build sustainable success.
The Yankees could turn to the trade market, where LaMonte Wade Jr. presents an affordable left-handed option. Wade’s .376 on-base percentage over the past two seasons could make him an ideal leadoff candidate.
Nathaniel Lowe is another intriguing target. The 29-year-old lefty has posted a .791 OPS over four solid seasons with Texas and could bring much-needed stability to first base. Josh Naylor, an All-Star in 2024, offers power and youth but might bring baggage after his infamous “rock-the-baby” celebration against the Yankees in 2022.
In-house options: Betting on development
If the Yankees choose to stay internal, Ben Rice could emerge as a dark horse. The rookie impressed with his disciplined approach in limited action but remains untested over a full season. DJ LeMahieu provides a veteran fallback option, though his declining power and $30 million contract make him less than ideal.
Oswaldo Cabrera, whose bat came alive late last season, could also be in the mix if he continues to develop.
With Juan Soto’s free agency looming large, the Yankees’ offseason plans could hinge on whether they land the superstar outfielder. If Soto joins the Bronx Bombers, it may limit their ability to splurge at first base. Regardless, the Yankees must find a way to stabilize the position as they look to rebound from a disappointing 2024 campaign.
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