The New York Yankees had been through a terrible season. They would like to bounce back stronger next season. But for that, there is a requirement for a lot of changes in the roster and in the organization in general. After the offseason started sooner than expected, owner Hal Steinbrenner mentioned that there would be some changes in the personnel and some not in the personnel. Moreover, the NY side failed to make the postseason for the first time since 2016. Clearly, there is something wrong with the analytics, philosophies, and coaching department in the franchise.
At least, that’s what captain Aaron Judge feels is the main reason for the team not making it to the “Big Dance” since 2009. Hence, Brian Cashman and his front office are planning everything in detail about which road to take in the offseason. Currently, the Yankees have their eyes set on a center fielder available on the market. Moreover, Luis Robert Jr has become instantly among the most appealing targets on the market.
Why Yankees Might Target The White Sox Center Fielder This Offseason?
The multi-tooled center fielder is only 26 years old. He came off of five winning seasons with the Chicago White Sox per fWAR. Moreover, Robert also hit 38 home runs and 36 doubles. Along with that, he stole 20 bags. As per Statcast’s Fielding Run Value, Luis Robert Jr. saved 12 runs up in the middle for the White Sox. Needless to say, Robert was a Gold Glove Finalist in the center field category. But he’s definitely not a perfect guy the Yankees might want to have. Luis Robert Jr. is very injury-prone because of his dynamic style of play.
Attention all shoppers.
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) November 17, 2023
Chicago White Sox GM Chris Getz: "I've made it very clear that the White Sox are willing to listen in on any of our players.''
Moreover, he’s a free swinger and has a questionable approach at the plate. Luis ranks 5th among 547 sluggers with 300 appearances at the plate. He made his debut back in 2020. Since then, Robert Jr, has shown little or no interest in developing more discipline. Anyhow, he can fit in any team, and the Yankees are in desperate need of a center fielder due to the absence of Harrison Bader and injured Jasson Dominguez. They can try and get back Bader for a short-term deal. However, Luis Robert Jr. is clearly a better option than others.
The Main Trade Prospects For The NY Side This Offseason
Moreover, the Bronx Bombers had an extra month in the offseason this year for the obvious reason. The Yankees would like to utilize it to the fullest. Moreover, the Bronx Bombers have already pondered the trade options of Juan Soto of the San Diego Padres and Yoshinobu Yamamoto of the Orix Buffaloes, as per rumors. If the Yankees don’t get Soto, they can try and get Cody Bellinger of the Los Angeles Dodgers.
But the NY side would not like to miss out on the chance of signing the Japanese pitcher Yamamoto. But these trades could be a lot tricky because of the high demands. Moreover, the Yankees must create some space in their roster for the new signings. They already did that when they waived six players early in the offseason. Now, the NY side can go for any quality pitchers and hitters.
