After a busy off-season filled with significant moves, the New York Yankees still have a few areas they need to address to solidify their roster heading into the 2024 season. While the team made major acquisitions and re-signings, there are lingering questions and needs.
1. Addressing the Outfield: With the departure of Harrison Bader and uncertainty surrounding Aaron Hicks, the Yankees’ outfield depth is a concern. While the team has elite talents in Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton, both have battled injuries. The Yankees could look for another reliable outfielder, whether through a trade or free-agent signing, to provide depth and balance.
2. Second Base: The Yankees have been searching for stability at second base for some time. Gleyber Torres, though capable, has been inconsistent, and the team could benefit from a more defensively secure option or another bat to complement Torres. The market for free-agent second basemen is not rich, but they might pursue trade options or promote top prospects like Oswald Peraza.
3. Bullpen Reinforcements: While the Yankees have a strong bullpen, particularly with closer Clay Holmes and setup man Jonathan Loáisiga, they could look to add another reliable arm, especially given the challenges teams face in maintaining depth over the course of a long season. A left-handed reliever could also be a target.
4. Starting Rotation Depth: With a rotation that includes ace Gerrit Cole and promising arms like Nestor Cortes and Luis Severino, there’s still the need for insurance against injury. The Yankees might seek a veteran starter to provide depth, especially considering the uncertainty around Severino’s consistency.
By filling these gaps, the Yankees could position themselves to make a deeper playoff run in 2024.
