The New York Yankees can undoubtedly ask for more players on their roster. They truly need it after a terrible season they have been through. The Bronx Bombers failed to make the postseason for the first time since 2016. It has been one of their worst seasons in history. However, the roster of the Yankees is not that bad. In fact, they have some of the best players in the league. For instance, Captain Aaron Judge is one of the top-rated sluggers in the league. He broke the record for most homers in a season in 2022.
Then, they had one of the most talented rookies in the league, Anthony Volpe, impressing everybody. The MLB and Rawling even selected him as a finalist for the shortstop category in the Gold Glove 2023 Awards. Hence, there have been few positives this season for the NY Side. But the 27-time World Series champions can sure do with extra help on their roster. Now, let’s see the players whose additions can bolster the Yankees roster for the next season.
A. Elvis Andrus
He is 35 years old. The defensive profile of Elvis Andrus is pretty similar to Anthony Volpe, the budding Gold Glover. Now, the question is if Andrus would like to return for another go-round. He loves to play a firebrand of typical offense and also enjoys a solid defensive brand. Perhaps, at his age, he would prefer the role of a mentor for a contending team. However, he still has a special range with 88% OAA and a below-average arm of 17%.
Hence, in order to survive, Andrus will need to be adept at tips and tricks. But Volpe might benefit under the 35-year-old’s wings. Since, he’s no longer an offensive star, the Yankees can get him for an easy deal. Last season, Andrus made only $3 million. Surely, it will decrease next season. The Yankees might receive 1.0 bWAR. At present, Andrus is at 0.9 and averages .250. He’s a more natural backup shortstop.
B. The Yankees Can Also Get Brian Anderson
Anderson is no longer the star he once was in his late 20s. He had great times in Milwaukee and Miami. In April, Brian Anderson hit 5 homers and 20 RBI as well as received an All-Star consideration. The Yankees can get him for $3 million or less. He is heading toward his 30s. Moreover, Anderson is still versatile and a plus WAR player. He currently averages 0.4 bWAR. Hence, he should come at a lower cost to IKF. Moreover, he can suit the outfield role better.
C. Mike Moustakas
He is 35 years old as well. Mike lost his fastball when he was around 30. But his presence still has a lot of value at the clubhouse. In 2023, Moustakas had a resurgence in his offense and posted a .795 OPS. The Yankees should get him as a backup for DJ LeMahieu. He should be a nice fit in the NY side’s bench instead of a guy who’s unlockable. Moreover, the Yankees should get him under a million dollars. This season, Moustakas might be getting $720K.
D. Yankees Can Try And Get Travis Jankowski As Backup As Well
Moreover, Travis is a Mets castoff from last year and is currently in Texas. This southpaw slugging outfielder used to post 1.4 bWAR, .266, with a 90 OPS in 278 games. If the Yankees want him, then they must beat the one-year offer from Texas. It might cost the NY side in the range of Anderson’s.