BREAKING: Yankees being buried by rivals as free agency kickes off
As free agency heats up, the New York Yankees are zeroing in on extending Juan Soto, though his decision—expected by December 5 ahead of the winter meetings—has left them in a holding pattern. In contrast, the Los Angeles Dodgers have hit the ground running, securing significant upgrades. They’ve locked down postseason standout Tommy Edman with an extension and landed ace Blake Snell on a lucrative deal worth over $35 million annually.
While the Dodgers bolster their roster, the Yankees risk falling behind, with key roster holes still unaddressed and three of their primary starters departing in free agency.
Dodgers Setting the Standard This Offseason
The Dodgers have significantly strengthened their roster with bold offseason moves. The addition of Blake Snell, a dominant left-handed starter, further fortifies a team already brimming with talent following their recent World Series triumph. With key players expected to return from injury in 2025, the Dodgers are solidifying themselves as early favorites for another championship run.
Meanwhile, the Yankees have taken a more reserved approach, focusing their efforts on retaining Juan Soto. The 26-year-old superstar is coming off a career-best season in 2024, during which he played 157 games and posted a stellar .288/.419/.569 slash line. Soto also hit a career-high 41 home runs, drove in 109 RBIs, and amassed an impressive 8.1 WAR. Despite his MVP-level performance, the award went to his teammate Aaron Judge, highlighting the Yankees’ enviable core of elite talent. However, without further roster upgrades, New York risks falling behind their aggressive rivals.
The Soto Decision Shapes the Yankees’ Offseason
Reports suggest that Yankees general manager Brian Cashman had Blake Snell on his radar before the Dodgers secured the star lefty, but his primary focus remains extending Juan Soto. The Yankees recognize that Soto’s elite offensive production is irreplaceable, cementing him as the centerpiece of their offseason strategy.
However, the delay in finalizing Soto’s deal risks leaving the Yankees behind as the market continues to shift. Soto’s contract will dictate how the Yankees allocate their resources, with pressing needs still remaining at first base, second base, and in the bullpen. The team’s ability to address these gaps hinges on the resolution of their top priority.
Addressing Key Roster Needs
The Yankees are banking on cost-effective solutions in some areas to enable significant investments elsewhere. Prospect Caleb Durbin is poised to compete for the second base job, while Jasson Dominguez is expected to secure an outfield spot. Both players, on pre-arbitration contracts earning around $750K annually, provide budget-friendly options that free up funds for a potential $50 million-per-year deal for Juan Soto and a top-tier first baseman like Christian Walker.
Walker, a 33-year-old free agent, stands out as a prime target. Known for his elite defense and consistent offensive production, he slashed .251/.335/.468 with 26 home runs and 84 RBIs in 2024. A three-year, $60 million contract could lock down first base and add a dependable bat to the Yankees’ lineup.
The bullpen is another area of focus, with the Yankees reportedly eyeing Tanner Scott and Jeff Hoffman as potential reinforcements. These pitchers could help address the void left by the departures of Clay Holmes and Tommy Kahnle, whose exits have created a significant need for reliable arms to cover late-inning situations.
Rotation Needs and Missed Opportunities
The Yankees’ starting rotation remains a concern. Although they’ve been linked to top free agents like Corbin Burnes, Max Fried, and Jack Flaherty, missing out on Blake Snell was a significant setback. As a left-hander, Snell could have brought balance to a rotation that underperformed last season, especially with Carlos Rodon’s struggles in his first year with the team.
Had Snell joined the Yankees, it might have prompted a trade involving Nestor Cortes to maintain equilibrium. With the remaining top starters being right-handed, Cashman now faces the challenge of finding creative ways to strengthen the rotation.
All Eyes on Soto
The Yankees’ offseason plans are closely tied to Juan Soto’s decision. Securing him with a long-term contract would instantly strengthen the lineup and lay the groundwork for future success. On the other hand, missing out on Soto would force the team to pursue less significant alternatives, potentially leading to a decline in offensive output.
Hal Steinbrenner has pledged to make improvements this offseason, with Soto as the top priority. Once that decision is made, the Yankees can evaluate their financial flexibility and focus on strengthening areas like first base, the bullpen, and the rotation.
A Critical Offseason Ahead
The Yankees are at a pivotal moment. The Dodgers have made bold moves, putting pressure on the Yankees to secure Soto and address significant roster weaknesses. Cashman faces a challenging task, but with smart signings and a potential Soto extension, the Yankees can still position themselves as strong contenders for the 2025 season.