As the offseason heats up, the New York Yankees are gearing up to bolster their roster after a crushing World Series loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers. While the pursuit of superstar Juan Soto remains the team’s primary focus, Brian Cashman and the Yankees’ front office must also weigh other potential signings to enhance the team’s chances of winning it all in 2025. Here’s a look at three free agents the Yanks should target and two they’d be wise to avoid.
Free Agents Yankees Should Sign:
Walker Buehler
Walker Buehler isn’t the flashiest name in free agency, but his postseason pedigree makes him an ideal addition to a Yankees rotation that struggled with consistency in the playoffs. Buehler’s injury-riddled past three years, during which he managed just 140.1 regular-season innings, have dimmed his star somewhat. However, his 3.04 career postseason ERA and incredible World Series performances (0.47 ERA in 19 innings) highlight his ability to shine under pressure.
Christian Walker
Christian Walker, a three-time Gold Glove winner, is coming off a solid 2024 campaign, slashing .251/.335/.468 with 26 home runs despite an injury-shortened season. Walker’s ability to hit 30+ home runs, as he did in 2022 and 2023, coupled with his reliability in the field, would be a significant upgrade for the Yankees. Walker’s reasonable price tag (around $20 million annually) and short-term contract potential align perfectly with the Yankees’ financial flexibility.
Hyeseong Kim
Hyeseong Kim, a standout in the KBO, brings a tantalizing mix of speed, defense, and on-base skills. The left-handed hitter has posted a .300+ batting average and a .370+ OBP in each of the last four seasons. With 211 career stolen bases in the KBO and three consecutive Gold Gloves, Kim could be the spark plug the Yankees need at the top of their lineup. While Kim’s power numbers may not dazzle, his ability to reach base consistently and create havoc with his speed makes him an intriguing lead-off candidate.
Free Agents Yankees Should Avoid:
Luis Severino
Luis Severino’s tenure with the Yankees was plagued by injuries and inconsistency. Although he posted a respectable 3.91 ERA in 2024, his overall postseason struggles (4.62 ERA) and reliance on underperforming pitches like his sinker and changeup make him a risky option. Severino’s flashes of brilliance are not enough to warrant a reunion, especially for a team aiming for postseason dominance.
Yoan Moncada
Yoan Moncada’s career has been marred by injuries and inconsistency. Though his 2019 season (.315 AVG, 25 HR) showcased his potential, he hasn’t replicated that form since. His left-handed swing and low cost might seem appealing, but Moncada’s unreliable performance and frequent IL stints make him a high-risk option. If signed, he should be viewed strictly as a backup infielder, not a key starter.
Overall, the Bombers have clear priorities this offseason, but careful planning will determine whether they can push past their heartbreak and claim the championship in 2025. While Buehler, Walker, and Kim offer high-impact solutions, avoiding risky moves like Severino and Moncada will be just as crucial.
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