Yankees no more in contention for Bellinger but yearn for Monty

Friday December 29, 2023

The New York Yankees seem to be altering their approach to acquiring free agents for the outfield. Recognizing the necessity for upgrades in the outfield during the offseason, they have chosen to pursue a sequence of significant trades, bringing in Juan Soto, Alex Verdugo, and Trent Grisham. These transactions indicate a deliberate strategy, possibly allowing other competitive teams to focus on the most expensive free-agent targets.

Yankees no more focused on Bellinger

The New York Yankees look content with not having Cody Bellinger in the Bronx. Despite the strong connection between the former Cubs outfielder and the Bronx Bombers, it is probable that he is no longer a target for them, given their shift toward obtaining offensive talent through alternative trade avenues.

Even after securing Juan Soto through a significant trade, speculations about the possibility of Cody Bellinger joining the Yankees persisted. Nevertheless, as reported by Jon Heyman of the New York Post, it appears that the Yankees have a full agenda, and Bellinger is no longer a consideration for the Bronx Bombers.

Cody Bellinger of the Cubs remains linked to the Yankees in the 2023 offseason. — instagram-cody_bellinger

Heyman expressed his opinion that the Cubs currently hold the advantage in the race for Bellinger. He asserted that the Yankees are no longer in the running, while acknowledging the potential interest of the Blue Jays and Giants. Heyman further elaborated that Bellinger’s skillset could benefit several teams, including the Mariners, Angels, and Mets. However, he emphasized that the Cubs’ recent managerial hire suggests a possible intent to bolster their offense, making them the frontrunners in his eyes.

This comes as somewhat expected by now. To contend for a World Series title in 2024, New York must make additional significant moves this offseason. However, it appears that the Yankees are content with their outfield situation and should focus their attention on other areas.

A reunion with Montgomery still on the cards

A reunion might be in the cards for this offseason. Per Jon Heyman of The New York Post, the New York Yankees express the desire to re-sign starting pitcher Jordan Montgomery.

Ex-Yankees player Jordan Montgomery and wife McKenzie Dirr with the 2023 World Series trophy. — gumbynation34

The trade involving Jordan Montgomery in 2022 turned out to be mutually beneficial. Following an impressive five-year tenure with the Yankees, where he posted a 3.94 ERA in 97 starts, Brian Cashman traded Montgomery to the Cardinals in exchange for Harrison Bader. This change sparked a resurgence for Montgomery, leading to a notable performance with the St. Louis Cardinals, and eventually culminating in him raising the World Series trophy with the Texas Rangers.

Given his performance, Montgomery has become a coveted figure in the free-agent market, aiming for a substantial payday. Rumor has it that he is seeking a contract comparable to the six-year, $162 million deal that the Yankees awarded Carlos Rodon last year.

The Yankees’ aspirations to acquire Japan’s pitching prodigy Yoshinobu Yamamoto dissolved swiftly, akin to a vanishing New York snowstorm. However, displaying resilience and practicality, their attention has pivoted towards a familiar face – Jordan Montgomery. At 31, the accomplished left-hander, adorned with a World Series title and seasoned experience, may reunite with Gerrit Cole, forming a potent duo in the rotation. Despite lingering speculations about Blake Snell’s potential addition, Montgomery emerges as the Yankees’ newfound trump card.

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