The New York Yankees have spent about half $1 billion on retaining Aaron Judge and landing star pitcher Carlos Rodon on the free agent market.
Despite owner and managing partner Hal Steinbrenner stepping up to the plate and committing to a bright future, the Yankees are not done acquiring players just yet, noting several needs on the roster.
During Aaron Judge’s introductory press conference after signing his new deal on Wednesday morning, he indicated that the team had added a number of quality pieces but that a few moves could be happening in the future. Both manager Aaron Boone and Steinbrenner mimicked that statement, so we should expect general manager Brian Cashman to be on the prowl.
Hal Steinbrenner: “We’re not done yet.”
The Yankees still need left field and some bullpen support:
Whether it be landing more bullpen support or filling the left field spot with a competent starter, the Yankees undoubtedly will continue boosting the roster ahead of the 2023 season.
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To compete with the Houston Astros in the playoffs, the Yankees must have strengths across-the-board and not liabilities like they did toward the end of the 2022 campaign. Relying on young players like Oswaldo Cabrera and Oswald Peraza in big moments was a losing strategy, but a bit of experience under their belt should help moving forward. They were only put in that position as a result of deficiencies and injury, to begin with, so they can’t be blamed.
Nonetheless, the feeling in the room during Judge’s press conference certainly showcased their excitement about adding more talent. The question is, will they look at the free agent market or trade for a productive solution?