New York Yankees: Who will fill the holes for 2024?

The New York Yankees brand has dented the rumor boards this week, creeping with interest in some of the hottest free agents on the market this offseason. The Ohtani sweepstakes is ongoing 24/7 amongst other names; the Bronx bombers are eager to improve back to World Series contenders, as losing seasons aren’t an option. Who do some of these inquiries include?

Yankees OF/SP Option: Shohei Ohtani

Although New York City would be a prime destination for Ohtani to grow his brand with an increased chance to win, it’s understood that the Yankees are the furthest back from interest in pursuing this hot topic.

The Yankees have inserted their name in this conversation, however, there is a shopping list of teams in the running, with the Los Angeles Dodgers being at the front of the line. The Yankees are not looking for a short-term commitment, especially after Tommy John surgery. New York can use the bat of Ohtani; an aspect they heavily struggled with this season.

Juan Soto

It is no secret that Juan Soto is on the trade block. The Padres need a dump-off after an ugly season that involved a World Series-caliber team on paper. New York is deeply involved in this conversation; Juan Soto seems to be the prioritized talent to put on Bronx pinstripes.

Teams are at the table for this guy and his bat will fit well at Yankee Stadium; especially with the right-field wall and his pull-side tendencies. This is a profile for a young star whose talents can help a contender, especially in the American League East.

San Diego wants to free up salary, which makes sense in shipping Soto off, however with replacements, financially they could be in a similar situation. Who may they ask from New York? Michael King is probably the top name of return in a possible trade. Other players and prospects such as Greg Weissert, Luis Gil, and more.

Josh Hader

Another Padre on the market, this time, one without a contract commitment. The Padre’s southpaw late-night stopper is now a free agent and considered a hot topic. New York has not had a solidified closer since the departure of Aroldis Chapman. Hader fits the description as one of the top closers in the game and will benefit any club in such situation. This is one of many holes to fill in the Bronx and Hader may be a strong consideration.