Many fans in the Yankee Universe have mixed emotions about the “Lack” of moves made so far by the Yankees front office. Brian Cashman stated at the start of the offseason that the priority was pitching. But when Patrick Corbin, the self-proclaimed Yankee fan, signed with the Washington Nationals. That left many fans questioning Brian Cashman. But there is still plenty of time left this offseason. And we examine three potential moves the Yankees can still make.
Brian Cashman made it clear that pitching was the priority. And the top starting pitching candidate decided to sign elsewhere. Leaving the Yankees to look for alternatives to solidify their squad for the 2019 season.
Sign Bryce Harper
Now I’ve written about Bryce Harper on a number of occasions. I’ve written about the talented and versatility that Bryce possesses. I have also written about the benefits of signing him. I have also discussed Bryce and the Yankees on the first episode of The Laracuente Ledger Podcast. So I will just say this Bryce is the time of generational talent that you don’t often get the chance to acquire in his prime. And at 26 years old, that is just now entering into the prime of his career. Secondly, Harper is also the type of “Superstar” whose star shines brightest on the big stage. And there is no bigger stage in baseball than that of Yankee Stadium in October.
Acquire A Top Flight Starter
It has been seen over the last two postseasons that the team that gets the most out of their starters is usually the last team standing. With that in mind, there are several notably top-tier starters rumored to be available. And although the Yankees have already used some prospects to acquire James Paxton. They have plenty more prospects if needed to acquire another. Pitchers like Corey Kluber, Trevor Bauer, and even Madison Bumgarner have been rumored to be available by trade. And guys like JA Happ and Dallas Keuchel are currently free agents.
Reinforce the Fringes
The Yankees aside from one more starter and Bryce Harper are almost entirely set for the 2019 season. But there are some moves that Yankees can make to improve on the margins.
Secondly, the Yankee will want to improve their bench. With the release of beloved utility man Ronald Torreyes, the Yanks will need to replace the versatile player. The Yankees could choose to bring back a guy like Neil Walker, who after a slow start helped the Bronx Bombers down the stretch. The Yanks could decide to go with a glove guy like Adeiny Hechavarria or Jose Iglesias. Or even a bat first guy like Daniel Murphy. The Bombers could also choose multiple position capable guys like Josh Harrison of Yangervis Solarte to round out the bench.
Bonus Acquistion
While it may not be a need at the forefront, the Yankees may want to consider taking a look at the 28-year-old backstop James McCann. McCann was non-tendered by the rebuilding Detroit Tigers but may still have value. And despite being loved by his teammates, Austin Romine does not provide much offense to the Yankees. Also while being known as a defensive first catcher, he does not rate out well by the (sometimes inconsistent) defensive metrics. James McCann, however, does rate out as a solid to above average defender behind the plate. And while the Yankees will not be short when it comes to home runs, McCann will provide more pop than that of Austin Romine.
