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Getty Images/Ringer illustration

The New York Yankees will be entering the 2024 season with a lot of desperation. The lost season narrative of the 2023 season needs to be shed. However, the pursuit of a staggering comeback is easier said than done. While the front office addressed key areas of concern, it’s unclear how the roster will come together as a unit.

Having said that, in three weeks from now, the New York Yankees will assemble at Tampa for spring training. A lot of players, including captain Aaron Judge, have already assembled. However, spring training holds much significance for skipper Aaron Boone as he figures out the ideal 26-man roster for the 2024 season.

   

New York Yankees’ Roster Projections For The 2024 Season!

Hitting Prowess

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NY Post

Offensive lackluster was the New York Yankees’ biggest concern in the 2023 season. Thus, to address those issues, the team signed superstar hitter Juan Soto via trade this off-season. Soto and Aaron Judge could form a formidable bond in the hitting lineup to anchor run production. However, the rest of the lineup is similar to 2023. Anthony Rizzo, DJ LeMahieu, and Giancarlo Stanton will enter the season with high expectations, considering their lackluster in 2023. Overall, the hitting lineup seems strong. However, each personnel must unlock his true potential to make a positive difference.

Starting Rotation

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Cole pitching against the Rockies. Photo by Michael Ciaglo/Getty Images

With Marcus Stroman’s addition, the New York Yankees found the missing piece in starting pitching rotation. The rotation will be led by defending AL CY Young pitcher Gerrit Cole. Having said that, the pressure is mounting on Carlos Rodon and Nestor Cortes to bounce back this year. The duo subsequently reported to spring training early in order to get back into rhythm. While Rodon has to work on his pitches, Cortes’ main priority is to remain healthy. The shoulder injury that relapsed has to be monitored throughout. Besides, Clarke Schmidt is out of the woods as Michael King was sent to Padres. He will remain the fifth starter in the rotation for the upcoming season.

Bullpen

Ian Hamilton
Ian Hamilton picked up his first major league save in the Yankees’ 3-2 win over the Rays. Getty Images

Bullpen could use a reinforcement before the season begins. Clay Holmes and Jonathan Loasiga will lead the relief pitchers this year. Tommy Kahnle still remains a force to be reckoned with. However, his health issues continue to hinder his growth. On the other hand, young Ian Hamilton swept MLB off their feat with his impressive short stint in 2023. However, an injury shut him down in the final stretch. Regardless, Hamilton will meet with a lot of expectations in 2023. Victor Gonzalez and Luke Weaver have received handsome contracts this off-season and must do justice.

Bench

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Yankees catching prospect Austin Wells Charles Wenzelberg / New York Post

Last but not least, the bench. Bench plays an important role because as the season progresses, injuries are bound to happen. Thus, to have strong strength on the bench helps any team, let alone the New York Yankees, in the long run. For 2023, Trent Grisham will serve as the backup outfield option, accompanied by Oswald Peraza as infield depth. Austin Wells will return to the mix, whereas Oswaldo Cabrera will continue to thrive as a utility player.

New York Yankees’ Final 2024 Season Roster Projection

Starting Lineup: Jose Trevino C, Anthony Rizzo 1B, Gleyber Torres 2B, Anthony Volpe SS, DJ LeMahieu 3B, Alex Verdugo LF, Aaron Judge CF, Juan Soto RF, Giancarlo Stanton DH.

Pitching Rotation: Gerrit Cole, RHP; Carlos Rodon, LHP; Nestor Cortes, LHP; Marcus Stroman, RHP; Clarke Schmidt RHP

Bullpen: Clay Holmes RHP, Jonathan Loasiga RHP, Tommy Kahnle RHP, Ian Hamilton RHP, Scott Effross RHP, Victor Gonzalez LHP, Nick Ramirez LHP, Luke Weaver RHP.

Bench: Trent Grisham OF, Oswald Peraza INF, Oswaldo Cabrera INF/OF, Austin Wells C.

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