The Yankees made the signing of Aaron Judge official on Tuesday and will have a news conference at the Stadium on Wednesday to discuss the team’s largest ever investment in a player.
Though retaining Judge via a nine-year, $360 million contract was their primary summer objective, the Yankees still have unanswered problems.
When they reached an agreement with left-handed pitcher Carlos Rodon, who is slated to replace Gerrit Cole at the top of the rotation, a number of these uncertainties were resolved.
However, left field and the bullpen might also be addressed, and Aaron Boone anticipates other transactions.
Tuesday, the manager stated, “I believe we are in a really good position with our current personnel and talent.” Between now and spring training, I wouldn’t be surprised if something occurs.
Left field is a concern due to the departure of Andrew Benintendi to the White Sox, the uncertainty surrounding the inexperienced Oswaldo Cabrera, and the oft-injured and underperforming Aaron Hicks.
The Yankees were interested in reuniting with Benintendi, but not for five years and $75 million as offered by the White Sox.
Michael Brantley, another option, re-signed with the Astros.
Michael Conforto, who missed last season with a shoulder injury, is still available.
The Yankees might also explore the trade market.
Boone stated that the front staff was pursuing multiple options to make an acquisition, but he also believed the team could survive with the current roster.
“We’d have to make it work,” said Boone, who was handing out food and toys alongside the NYPD and the Food Bank For New York City at the 44th Precinct in The Bronx.
Boone remarked, “I believe we can accomplish our objective with the personnel we possess.”
After learning to play the outfield in the majors, Cabrera displayed potential as a rookie, but he struggled at the plate during the postseason.
Hicks struggled throughout the entire season, lost his job, and was subsequently eliminated from the playoffs due to a left knee injury.
Boone stated that he anticipates Hicks will be healthy prior to the start of spring training.
Boone stated, “It will be a competitive climate.”
One that will not include Matt Carpenter, who provided the Yankees with a much-needed boost last season.
Carpenter, whose fractured left foot sidelined him for much of the second half of the regular season, inked a one-year contract with the Padres that includes a player option for 2024, according to Jon Heyman of The Post.
»Yankees still have concerns with their bullpen and left field.«