Offseason Maneuvers: Yankees Focus on Pitching, Rays Fielding Offers
The MLB Winter Meetings are set to take the stage next week in Dallas, and teams across the league are gearing up for a flurry of activity. As the offseason unfolds, the New York Yankees are emerging as proactive players, particularly in their pursuit of bolstering their pitching roster.
The Yankees have already initiated conversations with some high-profile free agents. In a sign of their ambitions, the team held a Zoom call with Max Fried, a pitcher whose performance on the mound has made him a coveted asset. In addition to Fried, the Yankees have also conducted a remote meeting with Corbin Burnes. Ranked as the second-best free agent this offseason, Burnes is drawing significant attention with his potential to transform any club's rotation.
With an already impressive rotation featuring pitchers like Gerrit Cole, Nestor Cortes, Luis Gil, Carlos Rodón, Clarke Schmidt, and Marcus Stroman, the Yankees are not resting on their laurels. Their aggressive strategy suggests a determined effort to secure a formidable lineup, come the 2024 season.
Rays' Trading Chances
Meanwhile, the Tampa Bay Rays are exploring their options and may entertain offers for a starting pitcher in their line-up. Among those drawing interest is Jeffrey Springs, a left-handed pitcher who has not only proven his resilience by bouncing back impressively after Tommy John surgery but also showcases strong numbers with a 3.27 ERA in the seven starts following his recovery.
Springs' 2022 performance was particularly noteworthy, where he achieved a 2.66 ERA over 125 innings as a starter, affirming his capability to handle the pressures of an MLB season. As one of the highest-paid players projected for the Rays' 2025 payroll—where his salary will jump to $10.5 million—trade discussions could potentially make him a valuable asset for interested teams.
Free-Agent Market Fever
The free-agent market is abuzz beyond just the Yankees and Rays. Right-hander Mike Soroka has emerged as a player to watch. Soroka's track record reveals a tale of two careers—he had a challenging phase with a 6.39 ERA and a 12.4% strikeout rate as a starter. However, his ability as a reliever shone through, with a 2.75 ERA and an impressive 39.0% strikeout rate. Despite his career being marred by two Achilles tears, Soroka's potential impact as a relief pitcher remains a draw for teams looking to enhance their bullpen depth.
International Talent on the Radar
Another intriguing development in the market comes from overseas. Koyo Aoyagi, representing the Hanshin Tigers, has entered the MLB scene through a posting system. Aoyagi posted an admirable 3.00 ERA with 78 strikeouts over 114 innings during the 2024 season, attracting the eyes of MLB scouts and executives. With a posting window open until January 17, the clock is ticking for teams considering adding this Japanese talent to their rosters.
As teams prepare to meet in Dallas, anticipation builds around potential deals involving high-impact players. Among those set for resolution is the situation surrounding Juan Soto, a baseball luminary whose future could become clearer before the conclusion of the Winter Meetings. The Yankees, among others, will be keen spectators, watching for moves that could alter the competitive landscape in the upcoming season.