Brian Cashman’s off-season mistakes could cost the New York Yankees a playoff spot this season. With 60-56, the team is currently seated at the bottom of the AL-East, four games below the playoff wildcard spot. In the most realistic scenario, the Bronx Bombers are all set to miss the postseason for the first time in seven years. However, the front office can still make things right to put the team back in the World Series hunt next year. Here are five such off-season moves Brian Cashman should consider for upcoming free agency.
1. Yankees Must Off-Load Expensive Giancarlo Stanton
The first change should come in the offense. This season, the team’s batting average is only second lowest to lowly Oakland Athletics. While Aaron Judge’s absence has been a major setback, the Yanks’ powerhouse Giancarlo Stanton has done too little to help. In a season marred by injuries, he has hit .204 with 18 home runs and 44 RBI, out of which 10 long hits came in the last 21 games. He is nowhere close to his MVP form and has become a sort of liability since last season. Hence, Stanton should be loaded off in the upcoming free agency.
2. Target OF Cody Bellinger
In place of Giancarlo Stanton, the New York Yankees should prioritize adding a left fielder. Cody Bellinger of the Chicago Cubs remains an ideal candidate. While Cubs pulled him off the trade market, the outfielder will enter free agency in the next off-season. The former NL MVP is witnessing a resurgence this season by hitting .327 with 17 home runs and 56 RBI. Moreover, he has been single-handedly carrying the Cubs to playoffs. Adding Cody would seemingly end the Bronx Bombers’ long-withstanding left-field woes.
3. Part Ways With Luis Severino And Domingo German
New York Yankees’ pitching rotation has been in flux all season long. Injuries and inconsistencies have badly affected the Bomber’s bullpen. Luis Severino, with an ERA over 8, is an impending free agent. The Yanks, in no scenario, should continue having him on the roster. He has failed to live up to his old hype and is nothing more than a liability. Apart from Severino, Domingo German should also be loaded off. His lack of discipline and personal battles has landed him on hot waters multiple times in the past two years. Hence, German should be shown the exit door as well.
4. Yankees Must Prioritise Adding Pitching Depth
Mike Clevinger of the Chicago White Sox is an ideal candidate for the Yankees once he hits free agency next season. He has had a 3.55 ERA in 15 starts with 64 strikeouts this season. Mike’s career ERA stands at 3.40, and the pitcher is just 25 years old. The thrower undoubtedly has loads of potential, and the Yankees should consider him for a long-term role. Apart from this, Corbin Burnes of the Milwaukee Brewers is a perfect trade option.
5. Secure Long Term Third Base Candidate
Josh Donaldson, DJ LeMahieu, and Gleyber Torres have all failed to secure a permanent spot at third base this season. Donaldson is set to go next year, which creates a vacant space. Jeimer Candelario is an option. He has hit .277 with 17 homers and 56 RBIs this season. And if the Yankees want to avoid an exchange, LeMahieu should be upgraded to third base permanently, with Gleyber Torres at second.