The New York Yankees are heading into a pivotal offseason. General Manager Brian Cashman keeps a close eye on both the free-agent and trade markets.
They’re exploring all sorts of options, from big-name sluggers to arms for the bullpen. The idea of bringing back All-Star reliever Devin Williams is getting a lot of buzz, and there’s chatter about blockbuster moves—like maybe landing San Diego Padres star Fernando Tatis Jr.
Yankees legend Don Mattingly is back in the spotlight, too. His Hall of Fame candidacy is picking up steam with the contemporary baseball era committee ballot.
Yankees Eye Multiple Targets in Free Agency
Cashman’s rumored wish list mixes veteran experience with younger talent. That approach hints at a front office looking for immediate help but also thinking a few seasons ahead.
The Yankees want players from all over the diamond. They’re clearly trying to patch up several holes at once.
Names on the Radar
Here are six names making the rounds:
- Kyle Tucker – An outfielder with legit power and a strong glove.
- Kyle Schwarber – Lefty slugger, dangerous in October.
- Michael King – Versatile pitcher who already knows the Yankees’ system.
- Paul Goldschmidt – Veteran first baseman, steady bat year after year.
- Tatsuya Imai – Japanese pitcher who’s turning heads in MLB circles.
- Devin Williams – Reliever with nasty stuff, could anchor the bullpen.
Each player brings something different, but the Yankees seem especially interested in Devin Williams. He’s already chatted with team officials about a possible return.
The Devin Williams Factor
Williams had some hiccups in 2025, but when he’s right, he’s one of the toughest relievers out there. That changeup—just filthy. He racks up strikeouts and could really settle things down in the late innings for New York.
Bringing him back might just restore that old bullpen swagger. The Yankees’ relief corps struggled last year, especially when the pressure was on.
Williams would add depth and give them more closing options. He knows the organization, so he’d fit in quickly. Plus, the fact that he’s open to a reunion? That’s promising for both sides.
Blockbuster Buzz: Fernando Tatis Jr.
Now, the wildest rumor involves Padres superstar Fernando Tatis Jr. Broadcaster Michael Kay floated the idea of the Yankees chasing him—imagine the headlines if that happened.
Tatis is just 27 and had a monster 2025, showing off both his bat and his glove. He’s the kind of player who changes the mood in a dugout.
The Trade Possibility
No question, Tatis would cost a fortune in a trade. The Padres would have to be willing to move him, and the Yankees would need to put together a serious offer.
The two clubs have traded before, so there’s some history to build on. Still, it all comes down to what the Padres want in return. If it happens, the American League could look very different overnight.
Don Mattingly’s Hall of Fame Consideration
It’s not all about roster moves this winter. There’s a renewed focus on Yankees history, too.
Don Mattingly—“Donnie Baseball”—is back in the Hall of Fame conversation. He’s on the contemporary baseball era committee ballot, and fans are debating his place in baseball’s pantheon.
Legacy in Pinstripes
Mattingly gave the Yankees years of slick fielding, a reliable bat, and steady leadership. Sure, the team didn’t win much during his era, but he played his heart out.
Whether the committee votes him in or not, his spot in Yankees lore feels untouchable. Some things go beyond stats, right?
Final Thoughts
The Yankees’ offseason looks like it’ll be one of the more intriguing ones in recent memory. There’s no shortage of drama, between high-leverage bullpen negotiations and those wild hypothetical trades.
They’re also honoring franchise legends, which just adds to the anticipation. Whether Cashman actually lands Devin Williams or makes a gutsy move for Fernando Tatis Jr. is anyone’s guess.
Don Mattingly could end up with a Hall of Fame plaque, too. The impact of whatever happens this winter? It’ll probably echo well into the 2026 season.
For Yankees fans, honestly, it’s all about staying tuned. The “silly season” is bound to churn out more rumors than actual news, but with the names floating around, New York’s front office seems ready to shake things up in a big way.
Here is the source article for this story: Yankees news: Free agency notes on Devin Williams and more
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