With the LA Dodgers lifting the 2024 World Series by beating New York Yankees, the off-season has finally commenced. The Yanks were gutted to fall short of the ultimate dream that has been ongoing for the past 15 years. However, fate didn’t support them, as the Dodgers ended up being the better team.
Having said that, the New York Yankees front office have no time waste as their plans for the upcoming season are already in motion. With a series of contracts expiring, the franchise have a use task at hand. And in a first off-season roster move, the team retained one of the key relievers that played a crucial role in postseason.
Luke Weaver’s Club Option For 2025 Picked Up By Yankees
The New York Yankees are gearing up for the 2025 MLB season by securing key players and addressing critical areas in the aftermath of their World Series defeat to the Los Angeles Dodgers. One significant move has been picking up the 2025 club option for right-handed reliever Luke Weaver. Weaver experienced a revival in New York after years as an inconsistent starter. Claimed off waivers in 2023, Weaver thrived as a reliever in 2024, eventually taking over as closer after Clay Holmes struggled late in the season. Weaver’s season stats were impressive, with a 7-3 record, 2.89 ERA, 0.93 WHIP, and 103 strikeouts over 84 innings. This performance justified the Yanks’ decision to secure his option.
Despite securing Weaver, the New York Yankees face broader questions and challenges. Their bullpen will need substantial reinforcement following a season marked by injuries and changes that left it vulnerable, particularly during the postseason. Another crucial aspect of the Yanks’ offseason will be the future of Juan Soto. The star outfielder is set to be the most coveted free agent, with early reports indicating that nearly a dozen teams, including the Mets, have expressed interest in signing him. Soto’s potential deal could exceed $500 million, presenting a significant financial decision for the team as they aim to retain their marquee slugger. Other key players hitting free agency include infielders Gleyber Torres and pitchers Tommy Kahnle, Jonathan Loaisiga, Tim Hill, and former closer Clay Holmes. It remains to be seen how the franchise manages its payroll with a heavy-weight roster.
Rivals Check In On Juan Soto Moments After World Series
Juan Soto’s free agency is setting the stage for a record-breaking bidding war after the Yankees’ recent World Series loss to the Dodgers. The 26-year-old outfielder, who played a crucial role in leading the Yanks to the 2024 American League pennant, is drawing significant interest from across MLB.
According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, the frenzy began quickly after the Yankees’ Game 5 defeat, with eight teams reaching out within two hours and that number climbing to 11 by the following morning. Notably, Juan Soto is projected to seek a contract of around $700 million, a colossal figure that would make him the highest-paid player in MLB history.
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