The New York Yankees arrived in Tampa six weeks ago with plenty of questions about how they would adjust and recover after losing Juan Soto in free agency. It feels like they've been here longer, yet they will break camp Sunday after playing the Tampa Bay Rays with just as many questions hanging over them.
General manager Brian Cashman admitted as much this weekend, telling reporters, including the New York Post's Greg Joyce, that the front office is still weighing internal options against what might shake loose elsewhere.
"I feel like I'd be happier if I can line up some choices for our manager," Cashman said. "I think some choices have emerged here in camp and then it comes down to if those choices in camp are better than anything that might exist outside."
That includes players available via trade, minor moves, or end-of-camp cuts around the league. The Yankees are still working the phones.
"We're definitely keeping the phone lines open," Cashman said. "We are certainly trying to improve on the margins if those margins exist."
They still have decisions about who is leaving with them after the game.
One of the more interesting calls involves the final bench spot. Pablo Reyes, a non-roster invitee, has made a strong impression with his versatility and steady play. He's a right-handed hitter - something this roster needs - and could slot into a third-base platoon with Oswaldo Cabrera.
Oswald Peraza, who is out of minor league options, is also in the mix. He's an offensive liability, but the Yankees need to decide whether to carry him as a depth piece or risk losing him on waivers.
It wouldn't be a surprise if the Yankees added another right-handed bat in the next few days. They've been watching other camps closely, and there's still time for a veteran to become available who fits the roster better than what they have in-house.
The bullpen picture is also unfinished.
Three spots are still up for grabs. Yoendrys Gómez looks like a favorite for one of them. He is also out of options and has looked the part this spring. Brent Headrick, a lefty who offers length, is in the mix and already on the 40-man roster. So is Yerry De Los Santos. Wilking Rodríguez, a non-roster invitee, is also in play.
The Yankees head to Port St. Lucie to see Soto and the Mets and officially close Grapefruit League play on Monday. They have a few more days - and a few more phone calls - to make before Opening Day on Thursday.
