The Yankees have made significant offseason moves, including trades and signings, as they aim to strengthen their roster for the upcoming season
New York: The Yankees are making some serious moves this offseason. After losing Juan Soto to the Mets, they’ve been busy trying to fill the gaps. There’s still a lot to do, but they’re not sitting back.
To keep you in the loop, we’re breaking down their moves as they happen. Just check back often, especially when GM Brian Cashman pulls off another trade. You won’t even need to refresh your page!
So far, they’ve made two big trades and signed a major free agent. Plus, they’ve kept a solid bullpen arm. What else is on the horizon?
Let’s dive into what they’ve done so far and keep an eye out for updates as more moves come in.
LHP MAX FRIED
(Signed to an eight-year, $218-million free agent contract)
After losing Soto, the Yankees stepped up their game by signing Fried, giving him the biggest deal ever for a lefty pitcher. He’s got a solid track record, ranking high in ERA since 2017. He’s in good company with some of the best pitchers in the league.
Fried’s style is all about getting ground balls and striking out batters. He could be the perfect No. 2 pitcher behind Cole, making their rotation pretty strong for the playoffs next year.
Sure, the length of the contract might raise some eyebrows since he’ll be 31 soon. But if he keeps pitching like he has, it could be a great deal for the Yankees.
GRADE: B+
RHP DEVIN WILLIAMS
(Acquired in a trade with the Brewers for LHP Nestor Cortes and INF prospect Caleb Durbin)
Another smart move for run prevention! With Clay Holmes leaving for the Mets, the Yankees snagged Williams, who’s known for his killer changeup. He’s likely stepping into the closer role.
Since 2019, he’s been lights out with a 1.83 ERA. Only one pitcher has a better record over that time. Adding him to the bullpen is a solid strategy, especially since he’s got a short commitment before free agency.
GRADE: A
1B/OF CODY BELLINGER
(Acquired in a trade with the Cubs for RHP Cody Poteet)
Bellinger is a lefty slugger, which is always a win in Yankee Stadium. He can play all over the outfield and first base, making him a versatile addition. If he can hit around 20-30 homers, he’ll be a great asset.
He’s not the MVP he once was, but if he can replicate his recent performance, he’ll definitely help the team, especially if he plays center field and lets Aaron Judge move back to right.
GRADE: B
RHP JONATHAN LOÁISIGA
(Re-signed to a one-year deal with a club option, terms unknown)
Loáisiga hasn’t pitched much lately, but when he’s healthy, he can be a game-changer. He had a fantastic season in 2021, and if he can get back to that form, he’ll be a valuable reliever.
This is a low-risk move for the Yankees. If he doesn’t pan out, they’ve still got other options, like Williams, who they traded for shortly after re-signing him.
GRADE: B
OF JUAN SOTO
(Left the Yankees for the Mets and $765 million over 15 years)
It’s tough to see Soto go, especially after he helped the Yankees break their World Series drought. They made a strong offer, but it wasn’t enough. How both teams fare in the coming seasons will tell us if the Yankees made the right moves.
GRADE: C+