The New York Yankees’ number one goal this offseason is undoubtedly to keep Juan Soto, as owner Hal Steinbrenner has stated multiple times. But as with any target, the Yanks need a backup plan if they miss their shot with Soto. Luckily, numerous rumors are swirling around about multiple free-agent pitchers that the Yankees may target if their Soto funds are freed up.
Yankees Reportedly Targeting Top Starting Pitchers
Bolstering the Rotation
As noted by MLB.com‘s Bryan Hoch, the Yankees aren’t in desperate need of starting pitching, but they would very much like to improve it nonetheless. They still have the same starting five that headlined the rotation last season, but that doesn’t mean they won’t aim to make it even more formidable. In the same conference where Steinbrenner noted that Soto was the Yanks’ top priority this winter, he also stated that the second priority was “to take a deep dive into the starting rotation, into the bullpen.”
If Soto decides to walk, which he very well may, it will obviously be a huge blow to the roster. But on the other hand, it also gives the Yankees much more wiggle room financially to upgrade multiple spots on the roster. Rumors have already surfaced that New York has already been in negotiations with some of this offseason’s top pitching prizes. If they have the resources to do so, they very well may make a splash on a distinguished starter.
Walker Buehler
The man who ended the Yankees’ season last October very well may be starting for them this spring. According to MLB Network’s Jon Morosi, there is mutual interest between the Yankees and the two-time All-Star. Although Walker Buehler has only started 30+ games in two seasons (due to two Tommy John surgeries), the right-hander would be a great fit in New York despite the risks. Additionally, because of his injury history, Buehler would likely cost less than, say, newly anointed Dodger Blake Snell.
Max Fried
One of the most highly-sought starters on the market this winter, landing an ace like Max Fried would be huge for New York’s rotation. Joining Carlos Rodón as the second southpaw in the Yanks’ arsenal would make the team much scarier. Despite also dealing with injuries over recent years, Fried has been one of the best pitchers in the game when healthy. As a result, the deal he receives this winter will be hefty, with Spotrac predicting that Fried is worth $22.7 million AAV. This is why they could really only afford him if Soto walks, which wouldn’t be the worst trade-off, in that they would be replacing a superstar outfielder with a number-one pitcher.
Jack Flaherty
The Yankees came so close to acquiring Jack Flaherty at last year’s trade deadline, but they were unsure of his medical records, and the 29-year-old ended up with the Dodgers. LA won both games Flaherty started in the Fall Classic, despite his blowup start in the deciding Game 5. Nonetheless, the 29-year-old was mostly spectacular last season, and he would give the Yanks’ rotation a major boost if his asking price is low enough for Steinbrenner.
Pitching Priority
Even if Soto decides to stay in the Bronx, the Yankees will still target a number of free-agent pitchers, both starters and relievers. With Clay Holmes, Tim Hill, and Tommy Kahnle all looking likely to depart, they will need to at least solidify the bullpen if they want to repeat last year’s World Series run. If they end up adding quality relievers and a high-end starter, this team is going to be scary with or without Juan Soto.
This article first appeared on Last Word On Sports and was syndicated with permission.
