In a first significant off-season move, the New York Yankees signed former Red Sox outfielder Alex Verdugo in a four-player trade exchange. Days later, the team secured generational talent Juan Soto in a blockbuster trade deal. With that, the Yanks’ outfield woes came to an end.
However, Juan Soto’s acquisition had negative implications for the New York Yankees outfield lineup for the 2024 season. It poses a risk for an injury-prone Aaron Judge, who is a pivotal piece of the franchise’s championship dreams. Thus, to ensure his safety, the Bronx Bombers seem keen on accommodating an additional outfielder this off-season.
Yankees Likely To Reignite Cody Bellinger Pursuit!
Ahead of the off-season, the New York Yankees stayed heavily linked to free agent Cody Bellinger. As the team struggled with outfield depth, Bellinger was deemed a perfect fit owing to the breakout season he had with the Cubs in 2023. However, after Yanks secured Alex Verdugo and Juan Soto, there exists no space for Bellinger anymore. Yet, the Yanks want Bellinger in their fold. As per insider Will Leitch, Soto’s addition will force captain Aaron Judge into center field, which is not an ideal space for him. The center field spot is highly demanding and would squeeze every ounce of Judge’s energy, thus making him extra prone to injuries. The Yanks simply cannot afford to lose Judge to an injury, especially after the 2023 season, which exposed the Yank’s dependence on its skipper.
Thus, to provide reinforcement, the Yankees could opt for Cody Bellinger, says Will Leitch. “Signing Bellinger would allow Aaron Judge to move out of center field and give the Yankees the type of big-name outfield we’re used to seeing in the Bronx,” wrote Leitch. Cody Bellinger won a silver bat owing to his extraordinary show this year. He averaged .307 with a .356 OBP, 26 home runs, 97 RBIs, and 20 steals with the Chicago Cubs. Moreover, Bellinger’s ability to play multiple outfield positions, including center field, aligns with the Yanks’ strategy to provide relief for captain Aaron Judge. Having said that, the pursuit won’t be a cakewalk. The Cubs and Blue Jays remain favorites to land the left-handed hitter. Jays, who lost Shohei Ohtani’s bid, have enough monetary power to lure Bellinger. Additionally, the Cubs have the loyalty leverage to convince the outfielder to sign an extension contract.
Fans Doubtful As Yanks Discuss Reunion With Jordan Montgomery!
Besides the outfield, the New York Yankees remain in dire need of pitching reinforcement. Since Yoshinobu Yamamoto is taking his sweet time to come to a conclusion, the Bronx Bombers have sorted out alternatives. According to Andy Martino of SNY, the New York-based outfit internally discussed a reunion with former starter Jordan Montgomery.
Jordan Montgomery recorded a successful season with World Series champions Texas Rangers in 2023. His numbers were exceptional in the postseason, which encouraged the Yankees to seek reunion. However, the fans aren’t convinced. They believe it would be a mistake to turn back to a pitcher who initially proved to be a bust in the Bronx.
