WHAT WILL HAPPEN TO ALEX VERDUGO?

The New York Yankees have some big decisions to make this offseason, and one of the most interesting is what to do with Alex Verdugo. Sure, his offensive numbers weren’t eye-popping last season, but there’s still a strong case for keeping Verdugo in pinstripes and even platooning him with the electric Jasson Domínguez. Plus, with the possibility that Juan Soto might not return, the Yankees are going to need another solid defensive outfielder. Verdugo fits that bill perfectly.

First off, let’s talk about Verdugo’s defense—because it’s elite. In left field, he’s shown off a cannon of an arm, great range, and a knack for reading plays. These aren’t just nice-to-have skills; they’re exactly what a Yankees team that prides itself on rock-solid fielding needs. With Verdugo holding down the outfield, the pitching staff can breathe a little easier knowing there’s someone reliable out there.

But Verdugo isn’t just a glove and a strong arm. The guy’s got that intangible spark that teams love. He’s energetic, competitive, and brings a fiery personality that’s contagious in the clubhouse. When things get tough during those mid-season slogs, having someone like Verdugo who can keep spirits high and the energy up can be a game-changer. You can’t measure that kind of impact in stats, but it’s the type of thing that keeps a team pushing through tough stretches.

Now, yes, his bat wasn’t quite as hot as fans hoped this past season, but let’s not write him off just yet. Everyone has a down year, and Verdugo has shown he’s capable of bouncing back. With the right coaching and a little tweak to his approach, he could rediscover that reliable stroke and contribute at the plate. Betting on Verdugo’s rebound could pay off big, especially when you consider what he brings defensively.

Speaking of contributions, platooning Verdugo with Jasson Domínguez could be a win-win. Domínguez is poised to be a breakout star, but having a seasoned player like Verdugo around as a mentor and a complementary piece makes the transition smoother. Let’s face it, adapting to the big leagues—and doing it in New York—is no easy task. Verdugo’s experience could be exactly what Domínguez needs to thrive while taking some pressure off.

And with Juan Soto’s future uncertain, Verdugo’s defensive chops and veteran presence become even more crucial. Championship runs are built on depth, and Verdugo gives the Yankees exactly that. He’s a known quantity, familiar with the team and what it means to play in Yankee Stadium, and there’s no gamble in what he brings defensively. On the other hand, looking outside for replacements could mean overpaying or rolling the dice on someone untested in the Bronx.

At the end of the day, keeping Alex Verdugo around just makes sense. His defense is top-notch, his presence boosts the clubhouse, and there’s real potential for him to regain his offensive form. Pairing him with Domínguez adds balance and depth that the Yankees will need for another deep run. Betting on Verdugo isn’t just about one player; it’s about setting the whole outfield up for success and being ready for whatever challenges come next.