The Yankees largely sat out the offseason previous to the MLB lockout that started on Dec. 2 and dragged on for greater than three months, solely re-signing Joely Rodriguez to return to the bullpen.
Now that the game has emerged from its slumber, basic supervisor Brian Cashman and his entrance workplace have appreciable work to do earlier than Opening Day, which has been pushed again to April 7.
Right here’s a primer on the positions that want work on earlier than they’re able to play:
Shortstop
Gleyber Torres won't get one other flip because the starter on the spot after the failed experiment ended within the latter a part of final season. That’s about all we all know. The Yankees didn’t pounce on any of the obtainable free brokers earlier than the lockout, watching potential targets Marcus Semien and Corey Seager go to Texas. Carlos Correa stays the highest obtainable free agent, however a short-term take care of Trevor Story or a smaller contract for Andrelton Simmons to function a stopgap for prospects Oswald Peraza or Anthony Volpe might be extra real looking.
First base
The Yankees clearly determined to maneuver on from Luke Voit final season, after they traded for Anthony Rizzo with Voit struggling by one other injury-plagued season. Voit is the one first baseman on the roster, however the Yankees could look to re-sign Rizzo or commerce for Oakland’s Matt Olson. One other chance is free agent Freddie Freeman, who surprisingly was not locked as much as a brand new contract by the Braves previous to the lockout.
Heart subject
Together with the apparent wants at shortstop and first, Cashman famous he may search for a brand new middle fielder, acknowledging Aaron Hicks’ incapability to remain wholesome. Arizona’s Ketel Marte has beforehand drawn curiosity from the Yankees, or they might transfer Joey Gallo to middle, signal a brand new left fielder and make Hicks the fourth outfielder. A return of Brett Gardner can’t be dominated out, both. And the A’s may come up once more right here. If the Yankees do go after Olson to play first, the 2 sides may make it an even bigger commerce by together with Ramon Laureano.
Rotation
And whereas we’re nonetheless on a possible commerce with Oakland, the Yankees is perhaps excited by one of many A’s starters. Oakland has right-handers Chris Bassitt and Frankie Montes, in addition to lefty Sean Manaea to doubtlessly slot in behind Gerrit Cole. In the event that they go the free-agent route, Carlos Rodon is an possibility, though he presents a well being danger.
Catcher
As of now, the Yankees have Gary Sanchez behind the plate, however Cashman didn’t rule out in search of an improve on the place to associate with Kyle Higashioka.
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