The New York Yankees have made one notable move this offseason by re-signing Cody Bellinger. The bigger story, though, is what might still be coming.
With spring training almost here, general manager Brian Cashman seems content to mostly run it back. He’s still open to some targeted tweaks, but nothing huge feels imminent.
This post looks at where the roster stands right now. Which needs are still unresolved? And could the Yankees use their outfield depth to address pitching or lineup balance?
Yankees Re-Sign Cody Bellinger, But Questions Linger
Bringing back Cody Bellinger sent a clear message. The Yankees wanted stability in left field and another proven bat in the middle of the order, and Bellinger gives them both.
His defensive versatility and left-handed power fit nicely into a lineup already loaded with lefty hitters. Still, Bellinger’s return didn’t fix every problem.
The Yankees came into the offseason hoping to upgrade their pitching staff. But most of the best options are already off the board.
Pitching Targets Off the Board
High-end starters like MacKenzie Gore and Freddy Peralta just aren’t realistic trade targets anymore. Blockbuster names like Tarik Skubal and Sandy Alcantara also seem unlikely to move.
So, the Yankees have to rethink how they’ll improve the rotation and bullpen before Opening Day. It’s a bit of a puzzle, honestly.
Outfield Prospects as Trade Currency
The Yankees actually have some flexibility in the outfield. With Bellinger signed and several veterans already on the roster, younger players might not see much playing time.
Why Jasson DomÃnguez Could Be Moved
Jasson DomÃnguez is the name that keeps popping up in trade rumors. ESPN’s Jorge Castillo thinks DomÃnguez could be dealt, citing questions about his defense and struggles against left-handed pitching.
His speed and lefty bat make him valuable depth, but the Yankees might see him as their best trade chip for bullpen help. Spencer Jones is another outfield prospect without a clear role, though most expect DomÃnguez to be the one moved if a deal happens.
Searching for Right-Handed Balance
The Yankees’ lineup leans heavily to the left side, which hurt them at times last year. The front office has looked at right-handed outfield bats to balance things out.
Potential Fits in the Outfield
Names like Austin Hays and Harrison Bader have come up as possible fits. Either guy would give Aaron Boone a right-handed option against tough lefties and add some defensive versatility.
Catching Depth and Lineup Construction
There’s also the catching situation. The Yankees’ top options — Austin Wells, J.C. Escarra, and Ben Rice — all hit left-handed.
A Right-Handed Catcher?
In theory, a right-handed-hitting catcher would help balance the lineup. But honestly, there just aren’t many good options out there right now.
For now, it’s more of a wish list item than a real priority.
Recent Roster Moves Signal Marginal Tweaks
According to MLB Trade Rumors, the Yankees recently claimed outfielder Michael Siani off waivers from the Dodgers. Siani owns a career .547 OPS but earned strong defensive grades in 2024, so he’s really just a depth piece at this point.
40-Man Roster Shuffle
The Yankees designated reliever Kaleb Ort for assignment to make room for Siani. Ort posted a 4.89 ERA over 46 innings with Houston last season.
Moves like this show the Yankees are willing to tinker around the edges, but the core roster remains mostly untouched.
What to Expect Before Spring Training
ESPN’s Jorge Castillo and MLB.com’s Bryan Hoch both think the Yankees will tweak the roster a bit more before camp kicks off. Maybe they’ll grab another bullpen arm, a right-handed bat, or even pull off a trade with some of those outfield prospects.
Right now, it seems like the Yankees feel pretty good about sticking with what they’ve got. They’re open to making a move if something interesting pops up—especially if it means the pitching staff gets a little steadier or the lineup isn’t quite so lefty-heavy.
Here is the source article for this story: Yankees news: With Bellinger in tow, could DomÃnguez be on the move?
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