The New York Yankees have been hyperactive in the pitching market this off-season. They batted deep for Yoshinobu Yamamoto. However, the LA Dodgers pulled off a masterstrokes to lure the Japanese ace into their fold. Besides, the team also pursued defending NL CY Young pitcher Blake Snell earlier this year.
However, Blake Snell put a hefty price tag on himself, which led to a fallout. Eventually, the New York Yankees pivoted to Marcus Stroman. However, the team could be in the hunt for some depth just weeks ahead of spring training. The Yanks have been linked to an ex-Blue Jays starter who is currently recovering from Tommy John surgery.
Can Yankees Pursue Hyun Jin Ryu This Off-Season?
The New York Yankees have recently been linked to discussions involving the acquisition of Toronto Blue Jays starter Hyun Jin Ryu. The pitcher remains an unrestricted free agent. However, Jin Ryu suffered a grievous injury last season for which he had to opt for Tommy John surgery. Currently, the left-hander is recovering from the same back in South Korea. However, rumors have it that Hyun Jin Ryu’s recovery is right on track. He could also participate in the second half of the 2024 season. Thus, the Bronx Bombers have been linked to the pitcher to bolster the rotational depth for the upcoming season. Currently, the Yanks’ starting rotation consists of Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodon, Nestor Cortes, Marcus Stroman, and Clarke Schmidt.
Having said that, Hyun Jin Ryu’s addition could strengthen the Yankees starting rotation by a significant margin. Ryu, a left-handed pitcher from South Korea, has garnered widespread acclaim for his consistent performance and veteran presence on the mound. He holds a diverse pitch repertoire and a track record of success in the major league. Moreover, Ryu’s addition would provide a valuable veteran presence and stability to a pitching staff that has experienced some turnover in recent seasons. Furthermore, Ryu’s experience pitching in high-pressure situations, including playoff games, could prove invaluable. Also, the ex-Blue Jays star would come cheap compared to Blake Snell. Thus, NYY must consider pursuing the South Korean phenomena to bolster the pitching staff depth for the coming season. An extended depth will only help the team in case of an injury outbreak.
Yanks Lose Corbin Burnes To Al-East Rival
Former CY Young award-winning pitcher Corbin Burnes remained linked to the New York Yankees earlier this year. However, a trade couldn’t come to fruition due to Burnes’ stern warning. In a podcast, the pitcher confirmed he won’t sign long-term for the team that trades him this off-season. He will elect free agency in 2025, irrespective of the circumstances.
Thus, the Yankees opted out and saved key prospects. However, in an unexpected move, the Baltimore Orioles have managed to pull off a trade. The deal was confirmed on Thursday. Having said that, earlier, the Brewers were expected to hold onto ace Burnes. However, the dynamics changed overnight as Yanks’ top AL-East rivals’ roster just got stronger ahead of the opening day.
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