As the MLB offseason approaches, the market is already heating up with rumors and speculations about potential free-agent signings and trades. The New York Yankees, particularly, are expected to remain hyperactive during the whole winter. With the kind of season they hand in 2023, they need heavy reinforcements to fixate the problems.
While the Yankees continue to bank on the youth brigade, they will undoubtedly seek a long-term secure option in the free agency. With Michael King stepping up in the rotation, the Yanks can solely focus on strengthening their offense. A strong outfielder, preferably a left-hander, is something that will excite the Bombers, and John Harper of SNY is a perfect fit candidate for the same.
Yankees Likely To Settle Unfulfilled Trade Wish During Free Agency By Acquiring Cody Bellinger!
During the August 1 trade deadline, the Yankees remained linked to many strong suits. However, Cody Bellinger’s name topped every potential list. It almost seemed a done deal until the Chicago Cubs changed their stance at the last minute. As the Cubs inched closer to their playoff dream, they chose to pull off Cody from the trade market since he was their top performer. Regardless, no force can stop Bellinger from donning the Yankee pinstripes in 2024, believes veteran MLB analyst John Harper. He believes that Cody is everything the Yanks need. As Judge earlier mentioned, they need a batter with a high hitting average and preferably a lefty who can optimize the Yankee stadium dynamics.
Cody Bellinger has been hitting .307 with 26 home runs, 97 RBIs, and 20 steals this season. It’s his best one since the MVP season in 2019. Moreover, the Cubs outfielder has good side power, which allows him to score towering hits on the left. The Yankee stadium’s left field is the shortest of all venues, which gives Bellinger an added advantage. Not only that, being a Yankee runs in the blood of the outfielder as his dad, Clay Bellinger, won two World Series titles with the Yankees. Thus, Cody could be tempted to continue the legacy. If the Cubs star lands in the Bronx, he could start in center field until Jasson Dominguez recovers from a UCL tear. And then eventually move to left field and possibly put an end to the revolving door. It’s a win-win deal for both sides, as Cody is becoming a free agent in 2024.
Yanks To Pull Off An Unthinkable Blockbuster Deal?
While Cody Bellinger is surely the favorite, the New York Yankees would like to explore more. One potential blockbuster deal the team can pull off is acquiring Padres star Juan Soto. The San Diego Padres has had a similar season to the Bronx and could become potential sellers during upcoming free agency.
Juan Soto, 24, is one of the best in the business. He hit .275 with 35 homers, 109 RBIs, and .930 OPS this year. While Soto is a dream pick, the asking price would be relatively higher. The Yankees could be asked to part ways with top prospects of the farm system. But for the sake of ending the offensive and left field woes, something has to give.
