Have The New York Yankees Spent Enough To Improve Their Team For 2019?

New York Yankees, J.A. Happ
Sep 23, 2018; Bronx, NY, USA; New York Yankees pitcher J.A. Happ (34) pitches in the first inning against the Baltimore Orioles at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Wendell Cruz-USA TODAY Sports

The New York Yankees embarked on a quest to spend less than $200 million this offseason, theoretically ruling out the signings of superstar free agents Bryce Harper and Manny Machado. While both are looking for offers north of $300 million, the Yanks chose to take more cost-efficient approach to improving their roster.

Adding players like DJ LeMahieu and Troy Tulowitzki provide value on the defensive side of the ball as well as hitting. The veterans will surely play a role in the success of the team moving forward, especially with a struggling infield — Miguel Andujar (15) errors at third-base and Gleyber Torres (12) errors at second.

But, a majority of the $150 million general manager Brian Cashman has spent this offseason has gone towards the improvement and bolstering of the bullpen which lost David Robertson to the Phillies.

Who did the Yankees add to the team?

While the retention of Zach Britton and J.A. Happ will surely help in 2019, adding relief pitcher Adam Ottavino was a huge positive. His skill-set and strikeout rate 112 in 77 innings (2018) will benefit the Bombers more than most think.

Staying under the $200 million threshold kept the signings short and sweet, but they do still have a bit of room if they want to bring in another quality player. I would anticipate the Yankees going after a potential first-baseman if possible via trade or free agency. The options are slimming down as the winter hot-stove cools to a brisk amber, but there’s always room for improvement, and Cashman is ever-only one step away from securing another deal to improve the team.

The fact of the matter is — the Yankees must limit their spending after the splurge they embarked on five-years ago to secure Ellsbury and Tanaka. Playing the long-game and instilling faith in their youth is ultimately the best way to go about developing the team.

I would expect a few more deals to go through, but at this point in time, the team as a whole seems to be more well-rounded and prepared to make another run at a World Series in 2019.