The New York Yankees are already leading the American League East division. Recently, they enjoyed a pretty dominating series win against the Cleveland Guardians. Albeit they lost the series opener after it went to the 12th inning, the offense, especially the Judge-Soto duo, gave the fans what they wanted. Throughout the series, Juan Soto and Aaron Judge proved once again why they are the best 1-2 punch in the league this season. They might not be a duo next year because the Dominican slugger will be a free agent. Moreover, the payroll of the Yankees, as Hal Steinbrenner, the owner, puts it, “Is not Sustainable.”
Hence, there is a good possibility that the Dominican slugger might move to another team next year. Anyway, in 2024, the Judge-Soto duo has raised the hype of a possible World Series win. If they can stay healthy, the NY side can surely win the ‘Big Dance’ this year, ending a 15-year-long drought. However, the Yankees must be wary of their outfield despite Soto and Judge doing a great job. Lately, Alex Verdugo has been struggling with his hitting average. Moreover, the NY side can look to sign Jason Heyward, who’s available in the market.
Yankees Might Land A Five-Time Gold Glove Winner
Albeit, Alex Verdugo is still doing a great job in the outfield, he has been struggling on the plate. If the Yankees have to replace him with someone from the roster, the most likely option is Jasson Dominguez. They might call up their top prospect, giving him a chance in the left field. However, before replacing Verdugo with ‘The Martian,’ the NY side will have to wait till September because he is on the IL. Nonetheless, Aaron Boone might have to do it at some point this year. Moreover, the Yankees can make a move soon as there is a five-time Gold Glove winner available. Previously, the outfielder Jason Heyward has played for St. Louis Cardinals, Atlanta Braves, Chicago Cubs, and lastly, the Los Angeles Dodgers.
As per Robert Murray of FanSided, “The LA Dodgers have surprisingly designated the outfielder Jason Heyward for assignment.” Since the outfielder is looking for a new opportunity, he can be a good fit for the New York Yankees roster. Moreover, Heyward will provide an elite level of defense, a favorite in the clubhouse and seems like still has a lot left in the tank. This year, Heyward played only 63 games, but has struggled with a batting average just over .200. However, his struggle on the plate in 2024, has been in a small sample size.
Why Heyward Will Be A Good Fit?
In 2023, Jason Heyward slashed .269/.340/.473, with 40 RBIs and 15 home runs. Clearly, the outfielder is at the last stage of his career, which means he will be a cheap bargain for the Yankees. They can even add another option alongside Alex Verdugo. Currently, the former Boston Red Sox outfielder is struggling on the plate.
Moreover, whenever Boone feels Dominguez is ready for his call-up, Heyward can have a bench role. Also, the Bronx Bombers would benefit from adding the veteran outfielder to their clubhouse down the stretch. Hence, they should consider the five-time Gold Glove winner.
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