As the New York Yankees conclude the underwhelming 2023 MLB season, the focus will immediately shift to 2024. In a couple of weeks, the front office is expected to huddle up to chalk up plans for the upcoming free agency. They hold the future of a lot of existing impending free agents and thus would have to remain mindful while making decisions.
Speaking of the free agency targets, the Yankees’ top targets will likely remain outfielders. Besides the obvious revolving door at left field, the Yanks now have a hole in the center as well. Harrison Bader, the regular position bearer, left the organization mid-season this year. Amid this, a renowned MLB writer has linked a Blue Jays CF to the Bombers.
Yankees Urged To Acquire Jays OF Kevin Kiermaier In Upcoming Free Agency!
Harrison Bader, the strong centerfielder, was waived off by the New York Yankees mid-season. In an injury-riddled season, Bader struggled with his offensive contributions. Thus, the Bombers put him on waivers where the Reds claimed him. Having said that, Bader’s departure has caused a hole in Yanks centerfield. While prospect Jasson Dominguez was expected to fill in, a UCL tear ruled him out for the first half of the 2024 season. Subsequently, the Bombers now remain short on OFs and need a temporary fix. Moreover, the free agency would be the best place to seek relief. As the off-season inches closer, the Yanks are being linked to Toronto Blue Jays outfielder Kevin Kiermaier.
While the East rivals clinched the playoff wildcard spot, they can still mull selling during upcoming off-season. While Cody Bellinger will likely remain the most favorite pick, the Yankees need to stay mindful of the luxury tax. A relatively cheaper option for them is Jays strong outfielder, Kevin Kiermaier. Kevin signed a one-year contract earlier this year and will become a free agent in 2024. He hit .265 with eight homers, 36 RBIs, and .741 OPS this year and performed even better defensively. Kevin posted a .988 fielding percentage across 971.1 innings while saving 17 defensive runs and 12 outs. While the Yanks shouldn’t expect much from Kiermaier in the long term, he is an excellent short-term centrefield option. Also, going after Kevin won’t cause significant stress on the overall payroll.
Aaron Judge Hopeful Of Dodging Off-Season Toe Surgery!
On the brighter side, Aaron Judge, the New York Yankees captain, will likely escape a toe surgery during the off-season. In a most recent interview, the captain confirmed that his ligament is healing up, and he intends to rule out the surgery early during winter. Judge wants to have a regular off-season. But at the same time, it is seeking a cautious approach.
Aaron Judge feels that since he has been playing through the injury for the longest time, it’s still not fully healed. Thus, the slugger will have to take a couple of weeks off to understand where he stands. Regardless, Judge expects to be in a very good position with his toe and preferably expects to avoid off-season surgery.
