The New York Yankees have been active this offseason, making significant moves to bolster their roster for the upcoming 2025 MLB season. Here’s a summary of their recent activities:

Key Acquisitions:

• Max Fried: The Yankees signed left-handed pitcher Max Fried to an eight-year, $218 million contract. Fried, formerly with the Atlanta Braves, is expected to strengthen the Yankees’ starting rotation.
• Paul Goldschmidt: First baseman Paul Goldschmidt joined the Yankees on a one-year, $12.5 million deal. Goldschmidt’s veteran presence and consistent offensive production are anticipated to enhance the Yankees’ lineup.
• Cody Bellinger: The Yankees acquired outfielder/first baseman Cody Bellinger from the Chicago Cubs. Bellinger is set to earn $25 million and is expected to provide versatility and power to the Yankees’ offense.
• Devin Williams: Right-handed reliever Devin Williams was brought in from the Milwaukee Brewers with an $8.4 million salary. Williams is known for his dominant changeup and will be a key component in the Yankees’ bullpen.

Arbitration Agreements:

The Yankees reached agreements with several arbitration-eligible players, avoiding the arbitration process:

• Devin Williams: Signed for $8.6 million.
• Jazz Chisholm Jr.: Infielder Jazz Chisholm Jr. agreed to a $5.85 million deal. Chisholm’s versatility allows him to play multiple positions, providing the Yankees with flexibility in their infield.
• Scott Effross: Reliever Scott Effross signed for $800,000.
• Clarke Schmidt: Starter Clarke Schmidt agreed to a $3.6 million contract.

These agreements reflect the Yankees’ commitment to maintaining a strong pitching staff and a versatile infield.

Infield Considerations:

Despite these acquisitions, questions remain about the Yankees’ infield lineup, particularly after trading for Jazz Chisholm Jr. With Gleyber Torres leaving the team and no replacement yet acquired, fans have voiced their preferences. In a survey, Yankees fans showed a strong inclination towards trading for an infielder over signing Alex Bregman, likely due to concerns over Bregman’s demands, past association with the Astros, and declining performance. Potential trade targets like Jonathan India, Gavin Lux, Nolan Arenado, and Alec Bohm are slim, making Brandon Lowe an appealing alternative for second base. The versatility of Chisholm Jr., who can play multiple positions including second and possibly outfield, allows the Yankees more flexibility in their search for quality players to fill their infield needs. This strategic flexibility may explain the Yankees’ patient approach to resolving their infield situation.

Family News:

Off the field, Yankees star Aaron Judge confirmed that his wife, Samantha Bracksieck, is pregnant with their first child, a baby girl. The couple, who met in high school and attended college together at Fresno State, married in December 2021. Judge has previously mentioned his wife’s supportive role in his career, especially during his contract negotiations with the Yankees.

As the offseason progresses, the Yankees appear to have concluded their major acquisitions and are now focusing on finalizing their roster and preparing for the 2025 season. With a blend of seasoned veterans and emerging talent, the team aims to build upon their recent successes and pursue a World Series title.