While the Boston Red Sox have taken action in free agency, in New York the feeling is completely the opposite. The signing of Ranger Suárez for five years and 130 million dollars not only strongly reinforces Boston, but also works as an uncomfortable reminder for the Yankees, who watch how their historic rival moves decisively while they remain, so far, in a much more conservative winter.
For many fans in the Bronx, frustration is inevitable. Boston made it clear that, after losing Alex Bregman, they would not panic or settle for half measures. Instead of desperately searching for an offensive replacement, the Red Sox decided to build from pitching and bet on a starter with proven experience both in the regular season and in the playoffs.
In contrast, the Yankees have had an offseason marked more by continuity than by impact, renewing agreements instead of looking for new blood. That situation is not being well received by fans in the Bronx, who feel that there is no movement within the team.
The signings the Yankees are making
So far, most of the Yankees’ activity during the winter has been about retaining pieces, not adding major figures. The only additions to the Major League roster have been relievers Cade Winquest, selected in the Rule 5 Draft, and Kaleb Ort, claimed off waivers. Aside from that, all the moves have been minor league contracts, with the veteran Paul DeJong standing out.
New York has renewed several players with Major League deals: Trent Grisham, Ryan Yarbrough, Amed Rosario, and Paul Blackburn. However, the name they really wanted to secure remains on the market. Cody Bellinger, a key piece in 2025, was an ideal complement for Aaron Judge as a left-handed hitter in the heart of the lineup and provided defensive versatility in the outfield and at first base. Today, negotiations between both sides are not advancing, and his return is at serious risk.
If Bellinger does not return, Jasson Domínguez appears as the projected starter in left field. Kyle Tucker is also a theoretical option, but the Yankees have not been aggressive contenders for him. Any of those additions would imply major moves, even a possible trade involving Domínguez. Bo Bichette has emerged as an alternative, although his arrival would require a more expensive contract and significant adjustments in the infield.
To this is added the uncertainty in the starting rotation. The Yankees will begin the season without Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodón, and Clarke Schmidt, all injured. The club has explored options such as Freddy Peralta and MacKenzie Gore, but the price in prospects would be high, and signing one of the best remaining starters in free agency seems unlikely.
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