Brian Cashman, the New York Yankees general manager, confirmed the obvious during his first public press conference after the postseason. During the testy exchange with the media, Cashman said the team will target two outfielders this off-season to fill up the roster holes that hurt their campaign in 2023.
While the front office possesses clarity in plans, the lack of execution has left the fans bemused. Many high-end players have remained linked to the team in these past few weeks. Some seem gettable while others are far-fetched dreams. Amid this, an MLB Network insider proposed an alternate outfield option for the Yankees if they lose out on a big name.
Yankees Linked To Ex-Diamondbacks Slugger Lourdes Gurriel Jr.!
As the MLB offseason kicks into high gear, the New York Yankees are reportedly setting their sights on a high-profile addition to bolster their lineup. Chicago Cubs slugger Cody Bellinger has been named a perfect fit, as the Yanks seem heavily invested. However, in MLB, nothing is certain. Thus, there is a plausible chance that the Bronx Bombers miss out on Bellinger for whatever reasons. If so happens, MLB Network’s Jon Morosi wants the club to go after former Diamondbacks slugger Lourdes Gurriel Jr. The arbitration-eligible Lourdes didn’t receive an extension offer from Diamondbacks at the non-tender deadline. Thus, the slugger was let go and has now become a free agent.
Lourdes Gurriel Jr., known for his dynamic offensive skills and defensive flexibility, enjoyed a standout year with the Arizona Diamondbacks. They narrowly missed out on the championship to the Texas Rangers. Meanwhile, right-handed hitters played a key role. He posted a .261 batting average with 24 home runs and 82 RBIs across 145 games. While the slugger is right-handed, he is just 30 and serves in the pinstripes for an extended amount of time. The potential addition of Gurriel to the Yankees aligns with the team’s strategy to address specific needs in the offseason. Moreover, Gurriel, with his blend of power, versatility, and recent All-Star pedigree, represents a significant piece in the puzzle the Yanks are assembling for the 2024 season. Of course, the Bombers’ first choice should remain Cody Bellinger. God forbid the deal falls out, Lourdes Gurriel Jr. is the way forward for the New York-based outfit.
Yanks Leading Charge To Land Korean Phenomena!
To solve offensive woes, the New York Yankees are seeking outside help. After Yoshinobu Yamamoto, the Bronx Bombers set their eyes on a Korean star outfielder, Jung Hoo Lee. The player is expected to be posted in the next couple of weeks, and Yanks have emerged as strong suitors. Having said that, Lee is not the power hitter the Bombers are looking for.
But his elite hand-eye coordination and ability to draw walks is what would attract Captain Aaron Judge the most. Hoo Lee possesses a high batting average and is more focused on creating run-scoring opportunities. Overall, Lee’s skills perfectly align with the Yankees’ needs at the moment. It would be interesting to see how the front office approaches the opening.
