This off-season, the New York Yankees addressed their key concern, which is the lack of outfield depth. Accordingly, Juan Soto and Alex Verdugo were traded from their respective teams in blockbuster exchange deals. However, the player swaps ceased the team’s bullpen depth as the front office was forced to part ways with potent pitchers.
While the Yankees parted with two prospects to land Verdugo, Brian Cashman has up four major league-ready pitchers to acquire Juan Soto from the Padres. Needless to say, the Bronx Bombers are in desperate need of bullpen arms. Amid the shortage, Katie Woo of The Athletic linked an elite fireballer to the New York-based baseball outfit.
Yankees Showing Interest In Jordan Hicks Amid Relief Pitchers Shortage!
The New York Yankees are reportedly exploring the possibility of bolstering their bullpen by expressing interest in the services of elite fireballer Jordan Hicks. As per Katie Woo of the Athletic, the Bronx Bombers have shown significant interest in Hicks. The pitcher is a free agent, and as per rumors, his ex-team, the St. Louis Cardinals, is seeking a reunion. To those unversed, the Cardinals traded Hicks to Blue Jays after extension negotiations fell apart. However, the Cardinals met with the reliever’s representatives during winter meetings last week. Amid talks of a reunion, Woo does not believe Jordan Hicks would opt for a reunion this off-season, given the market demand.
As per Katie Woo, the New York Yankees and Houston Astros have checked in on Jordan Hicks in these past few weeks. Meanwhile, the Bombers’ interest shouldn’t come as a surprise. They have off-loaded a whole lot of relief pitchers to accommodate outfielders. They remain in desperate need of reinforcements, and Hicks happens to be a perfect fit. He logged a 3.29 ERA across 65 games in 2023 while splitting his time with the Cardinals and Jays. He also pitched a total of 65.2 innings last season. Having said that, the Yanks must assess the fireballer’s injury status before making a move. The pitcher underwent Tommy John surgery in 2019, which led to an extended absence. While adding a talent like Hicks is an intriguing possibility for Yanks, the potential negative implications of the addition must be carefully assessed.
Alternative For Yanks If Yoshinobu Yamamoto Lands With Dodgers!
The Yoshinobu Yamamoto sweepstakes took a fresh turn this week. While the Yankees met with the ace and held a positive discussion, rumors have it that he may land with the Dodgers eventually. If it so happens, the Bronx Bombers could target Corbin Burnes. The former CY Young Awardee delivered yet another All-Star season in 2023. Across 32 starts, Burnes logged a 3.39 ERA.
Known for his electric fastball, devastating slider, and impressive strikeout ability, Burnes could provide the Yankees with a top-tier arm capable of anchoring their rotation. The pitcher is eligible for arbitration, thus allowing the Yanks to go for a trade. It’s important for the Bronx Bombers to assess alternate pitching options and not just rely on Yamamoto’s sweepstakes.
