BULLPEN HELP COULD BE ON THE WAY!

Let’s talk lefties and why Tanner Scott should be the Yankees’ next big bullpen move. 

Look, the Bronx needs a wrecking ball in the 'pen to pair with Luke Weaver, who—admit it—has been shockingly amazing. Enter Tanner Scott: a human cheat code with a fastball-slider combo so filthy it should come with a hazmat warning. If the Yanks land Scott, we’re talking about a 1-2 punch that could have hitters running back to the dugout, crying for their moms in my opinion.

The man clocked a 1.75 ERA, fanned 84 batters in 72 innings, and picked up an All-Star nod. That’s not just dominant—that’s “don’t touch my plate” dominant. Scott was no walks, no drama, just strikeouts and vibes. Exactly what we need after watching the bullpen implode like a bad TikTok trend.

Now, I hear you: “But we have Luke Weaver as our closer!” Sure, Weaver’s been solid, but why stop there? The Yankees weren’t exactly pinching pennies after passing on Juan Soto’s 16-year deal. Sixteen years! That’s longer than most marriages, and by Year 3, the Mets will be stuck paying for a guy hitting .214 while complaining about Citi Field’s dimensions. Classic Mets move.

Back to Tanner Scott. This guy has bounced from Miami to San Diego, mowing down hitters like it’s his full-time job—because it is. Fastball-slider, bat-missing magician, lefty specialist—he checks every box. Pair him with Weaver, and suddenly, Yankee fans can actually enjoy the last three outs of a game instead of clutching their chest like a heart attack is imminent.

Scott’s addition would make our Yankee bullpen great. So, Brian Cashman, stop overthinking it and give us Tanner Scott. Do it for us fans for crying out loud.

Stay tuned.

ALL THE THINGS THE YANKEES NEED TO FIX BEFORE I STEP INTO THAT STADIUM AGAIN!

When I was in high school, I wrote for the school newspaper. I know you are shocked. But here is the thing. I wrote this piece about the New York Times delivering our journalism "textbook" in a snow drift on a busy intersection on Hylan Boulevard in Staten Island. So an entire set of papers together in twine in 12 inches of snow for high school students to use in class. I blasted them with a headline, "All the News That's Fit to Toss Into a Snowdrift." My point. I am not nearly as angry about Juan Soto going to the Mets as I am with a bunch of other to-do list items that the team needs to take responsibility for. And by the way, if they don't, you won't see me at the Stadium in 2025.

First on my list: Fix the entry into the Stadium. It is an absolute dumpster fire trying to get into Yankee Stadium. And guess what, it's not that way anywhere else. I dread it. You can't enjoy the stuff around the Stadium for too long if you don't get in the line early. Even with Clear, it is a mess. So, fix it. Because it's not a good look for fans nor out of towners who are trying to get a glimpse of legendary New York baseball culture. The Yankees are 30th on the list when it comes to getting into the Stadium with maybe Dodger Stadium almost as bad. Tripadvisor, Reddit, TikTok, and recently NDNation who had a slew of Army-Notre Dame fans entering Yankees Stadium for the game in late November all blasted the Stadium for its disaster of a process. Fix it, fix it now. 

Second on my list: Starting pitching. According to MLB.com, “What's the next opportunity?” Cashman said. “We have a lot of different areas to fix on this team; we have vacancies from free agency, so we're exploring trades as well as free agents, comparing that to our internal options that we could promote. Those are the decisions we have to make.” There is no one right now on this roster that can parallel Gerrit Cole in the starting rotation; until yesterday, when the Yankees signed a multi-year deal with Max Fried from Atlanta. 

The Yankees also seem to like Tanner Scott of the Padres and of course Corbin Burnes of the Orioles. All three pitchers are just turning 30, which is fine. But as analysts have been saying, one of the reasons Juan Soto got his payday is because of how good he is for his young age of 26. Pitchers seem to have a bit more life beyond 30 than position players but still something to consider. Let's see if I can cross this one off my list. 

Third on my list: Nail down your fundamentals. Whether it was an embellishment or just hard knocks, it was embarrassing to watch the Yankees look like fools on the base paths, making errors on routine plays and just not having that spark and hustle it takes to win ball games in 2024 and on display in the World Series. Get that under control. So whatever that looks like, get that process and remediation in place and fix the fundamentals. 

Fourth on my list: Bullpen depth. Yea, we had a good bullpen. But you can't count on Luke Weaver every time to bail you out of trouble. It is just not sustainable. I am so glad to see Clay Holmes go, but now what? Who's in the pen? Who can we acquire, who can we home grow? And what will happen with Jonathan Loaisiga, who according to sources, is talking to the Mets. Loaisiga had season ending elbow surgery in April. He is expected to be ready for Spring Training, but will the Yankees be able to keep him? We need some arms, stat. 

Fifth on my list: Just because I want to round it out with 5 for 2025, I will stop with one more request which is really two: Hot corner guys. A first baseman who can hit with power, who can make the hard plays, who can drive in runs and lead. I thought that guy was Anthony Rizzo, but clearly the game has beaten him up over the years and he has moved on. Who can take on that role? 

And a third baseman. Nolan Arenado could be available. At the age of 33 and despite his no trade clause, the Cardinal third baseman could be on the move. As reported by MLB.com, "Cardinals president of baseball operations John Mozeliak stressed that from his Dallas hotel suite on Monday night and backed it up, not only proclaiming his intention of trading 10-time Gold Glove winner Nolan Arenado, but venturing to guess that not doing so this winter would likely limit any hopes that the Cardinals have of coming out improved on the other side of what he called a “reset” for 2025." Arenado wants to win a World Series. That hunger could bring him to the Bronx. 

So, unless there is movement on all of these requests, I am not moving off my couch to the Stadium in 2025. Now back to the New York Times story. I called them out as a 17-year-old high school student and they wrote a letter of apology and took responsibility. Will the Yankees do the same? Will they fix the entry process, get a premiere starting pitcher, hone their fundamentals, deepen their pen and get great guys on the hot corners? God, I hope so. I love baseball, but I am not investing in another season unless they take responsibility and make good. 

--Suzie Pinstripe

BYB Senior Managing Editor

Twitter: @suzieprof

F SOTO. THE YANKEES MADE A MONSTER MOVE!

The New York Yankees have done it again! The Bronx Bombers have made a monumental splash in the free-agent market, landing superstar left-hander Max Fried on an eight-year, $218 million deal, according to Jeff Passan of ESPN. This move is massive for a team looking to solidify its rotation and make a statement in their quest for championship glory. The agreement, pending a physical, is one of the most significant contracts in Yankees history and marks the largest deal ever for a lefty pitcher in Major League Baseball.

Credit where it’s due: Bleeding Yankee Blue has been on top of this from the start. We’ve been carefully watching the market and calling this exact move for a hot minute. Yes, folks, we suggested that Max Fried would end up in pinstripes, and here we are—an incredible get for the Yankees and a testament to their ability to outmaneuver the competition.

According to USA Today’s Bob Nightengale, the deal includes no deferred money or opt-out clauses, signaling the Yankees’ full commitment to Fried as a cornerstone of their rotation. Joel Sherman of the New York Post adds that the contract also comes with a full no-trade clause, locking Fried in as a Yankee for the foreseeable future. The competition was fierce, with the Red Sox and Rangers reportedly in hot pursuit, but the Yankees’ deep pockets and determination sealed the deal.

Let’s talk about why this move is so monumental. After missing out on Juan Soto in a bidding war, the Yankees had financial flexibility to go all-in on the market’s top unsigned pitcher. And that’s exactly what they did. According to Jon Morosi of MLB Network, the Yankees initially considered a seven-year deal but were willing to stretch to eight years to secure Fried’s elite talent.

Make no mistake—this is a game-changer in my opinion. Fried’s consistency and dominance on the mound have been unmatched by all but one pitcher in recent years. Since his first full season in 2019, Fried boasts a spectacular 3.07 ERA over 824 2/3 innings. Only one pitcher has bested him in both categories over that span: Gerrit Cole. Now, Cole and Fried will form a devastating one-two punch at the top of the Yankees’ rotation. Nice. The Yankees’ ability to outbid Boston and Texas for Fried’s services is a testament to their determination and allure as a franchise. The Red Sox and Rangers both aggressively pursued Fried, but the Yankees’ willingness to offer that eighth year—and their undeniable prestige—gave them the edge. 

Though Fried's career includes up-and-down postseason performances, it's impossible to forget his six shutout innings in Atlanta's World Series-clinching Game 6 in 2021. That performance showcased his ability to dominate on the biggest stage, a trait that will be invaluable in pinstripes.

And let’s not forget Fried’s ability to rise to the occasion. This is a pitcher built for the spotlight, and there’s no bigger stage than Yankee Stadium. Expect him to thrive under the bright lights of New York and deliver in high-stakes moments.

For all the skeptics who doubted this move was possible, we’ve got just one thing to say: Bleeding Yankee Blue wanted it!  With Fried now in the fold, the Yankees’ rotation is absolutely loaded. Pairing him with Cole, Nestor Cortes, Carlos Rodón, and Clarke Schmidt creates a rotation with depth, versatility, and firepower. This move not only improves the Yankees’ chances in 2024 but also sets them up for long-term success. The only thing better would be to now sign Corbin Burnes and unload Nestor Cortes.

Look Yankees fans, get excited. This is the kind of move that changes the trajectory of a franchise. Welcome to the Bronx, Max Fried—we can’t wait to see you dominate in pinstripes!

WE AIN'T IN KANSAS ANYMORE SOTO!

Yes, here is another "typical Yankee fan" popping off about Juan Soto taking his big payday with the other ball club in Queens. 

No, I'm not running the Mets or their fans down. What bothers my about the Orange and Blue...and sometimes black team and their fans is that WE DON'T HATE THE METS! They want us to! 

They want us to hate them. They want a rivalry... but they, as Derek said, they're "just the Mets". They are the place holder wearing the colors of New York originals... THE BROOKLYN DODGERS and THE NEW YORK GIANTS. They will always be the "other team". 

Steve Cohen will never change that. Why? Because all the money in the world can't erase The Babe, The Mick, Joe D, The Iron Horse, Reggie, The Bronx Zoo, The 90s etc.  No, this isn't me holding onto the past either. IT'S JUST BASEBALL HISTORY, that's all, and there happens to be a lot of YANKEE BASEBALL in that proud story of the American Pastime. Full stop.

I'm glad for my pals that root for the Metropolitans. Truly. They have a great park over there. It's a quantum leap over the big "Ashtray near LaGuardia" as my Pop once called it. Yea... remember Shea Stadium? They have some great players these days and the Mets of the 1980s were fun to watch.

My issue is with guys like Barstool's KFC puffing his chest out on WFAN today saying, "NOBODY CARES ABOUT MONUMENT PARK AND THE PINSTRIPES ANYMORE!" Seems like Yankee fans live rent-free eating nothing but high scoring Portnoy Pizza's in Kev's head. Take your big-time player! Steve had the money, Soto has Boras and so it goes and so it goes. I enjoy KFC on the Barstool podcast, and know he's breaking balls, but the glee people get from the Yanks not signing someone outweighing the rush of getting a big bat like Juan is nuts.

Signing Soto would've been awesome for the Yankees. He seemed to like the Bronx, playing with #99 and the fans loved him...BUT it's a lousy move. It hamstrings you from getting anything else, even having Cohen's monopoly money. The luxury tax is heavy and buying all-star teams does not work.

We are so far gone on players and these contracts. 700 plus million? For a one ballplayer? Think on that. Yes, dollar amounts increase as time passes, but that is insane. Even if they do a little presto chango like Ohtani and backload it all...it still sucks. WE AS FANS END UP PAYING THE NOTE, GANG! Higher ticket prices. Higher concessions prices, Taking a family of 4 to a game? Call your bank and take out that second mortgage.

I don't blame the players. They take what is offered. If the owners put a cap on cash the Union will strike. Agents like Boras don't care about you and your love of the game. They don't. Juan Soto doesn't either. You cheering him as a Met or booing because he ain't a Yankee anymore makes NO difference to him. He is a hired gun. He NEVER claimed to be anything else.

Don't the Mets still own Bobby Bonilla? Baseball is a clown show of contracts these days. For every Juan Soto story we see flame outs, injuries... or they lose the hunger because they got all they wanted. S

Sickboy's line in Trainspotting - "First ya have it. Then you lose it. Then it's gone forever. In all walks of life." 

THIS WILL HAPPEN. The Mets just overpaid for a guy who is GREAT! He is a great ballplayer...but in 2 years he'll be really, really good. In 5 years he'll be a strong power hitter who will be a permanent DH. In 7 years, Mets fans will be calling into WFAN saying, "I said it then! We should never have given him that type of money! 15 years??"

Look, the Yankees have PLENTY of problems. I don't think much of the GM. The owner ain't his old man. The team has stars...and a lot of black holes too. The new stadium is a nice outdoor mall, and there are loud mouth Yankee fans spouting off with the sad, "27 championships, bro!" But they're still the Yankees for better or for worse. Steve Cohen and Juan Soto can't make them a lesser franchise in the world of sports or baseball lore any more than Rolling Stone could try to make the Beatles a lesser band. In short, some things just stay gold in this world. The New York Yankees were never about one player. They are, whether KFC and his ilk like it or not, what people think of when baseball is uttered - fan or not.

What Soto did was great for Soto, good for the Mets and lousy for baseball fans. It will keep pushing our game more and more out of reach. It's not because the slugger passed on the Yankees either. I feel the Yankees are culpable too. No organizations are innocent. No superstar player is either.

We always hear the cliche', "hey, it's a business." That may be true. It's a business for the owners and big-time players...but for us fans? We're outside looking in at a sign that reads : BASEBALL FANS NEED NOT APPLY.

A 90's song about greed ought to do it... Silverchair for the Golden Throne Juan Soto now sits on.

--Mike O'Hara

BYB Contributor

Twitter: @mikeyoh21

 

THE SOTO SAGA: WHY YANKEE FANS SHOULD BE GRATEFUL

Alright, Yankees fans, let’s clear the air. Juan Soto isn’t wearing pinstripes, and that’s not a tragedy. 

In fact, it’s possibly a blessing in disguise. Before you throw your remote at the TV or tweet out your frustrations like Nick Turturro, let’s break it down—and maybe have a little fun while we do.

DEAR JUAN SOTO pic.twitter.com/1eNeWCYTlO

— Big Nick Turturro (@NickTurturro1) December 9, 2024

First, let’s give Hal Steinbrenner a round of applause. The Yankees didn’t lose Soto because they were cheap. Oh no, Hal opened the vault and offered Soto more cash than any of us could even dream about. Seriously, the offer was so jaw-dropping it made Aaron Judge’s record-breaking contract look like a Costco discount. They were ready to pay Soto more than they ever paid Derek Jeter. Derek. Freaking. Jeter. Let that sink in.

But Soto? He just couldn’t deal with being the second fiddle. Aaron Judge is the face of the Yankees, the captain, the one fans chant for. Soto wanted to be the main attraction. Ego much? Sorry, Juan, but New York isn’t a place for second-tier divas when we’ve got a leader like Judge. The Mets was the right fit.

Now let’s talk about our crosstown rivals. Steve Cohen swooped in with an offer that screams desperation. And hey, Mets fans, enjoy it while it lasts because in about five years, you’ll be stuck with an overpriced DH who can’t run, can’t field, and is nursing injuries from years of overuse. Soto’s not even a five-tool player. Let’s face it, the Mets didn’t make a smart baseball move—they made a move to stick it to the Yankees. Classic Mets.

Do we really think this is a championship-defining contract? It feels more like a billionaire playing “anything you can do, I can do better.” Spoiler: he can’t. Soto’s contract might just go down as the biggest albatross in MLB history. Yankees fans, you dodged a bullet. The Mets? They have Bobby Bonilla 2.0.

The system is broken. You know that right? Let’s address the elephant in the room: baseball’s salary system is a circus act. $760 million for one player? It’s insane. The Yankees were ready to commit, but maybe it’s a good thing they didn’t. This money can—and should—be spent more wisely.

And so, here's what I say; if Hal was willing to splash that kind of cash on Soto, then he has no excuse not to fix the other holes in this roster. First and third base need upgrades. The rotation? Oh, it’s screaming for reinforcements. Max Fried and Corbin Burnes, anyone? GET THEM BOTH. With just a fraction of what they offered Soto, the Yankees can bring in two legitimate starters and still have cash left over for a power-hitting outfielder.

Think about it: instead of one Soto, we could have multiple stars bolstering this team. That’s not losing—it’s a strategic win.

So, Yankees fans, take a deep breath. This isn’t about Hal being cheap or Brian Cashman losing his touch. It’s about Juan Soto making a decision that wasn’t the right fit for New York. Instead of sulking, let’s see this as an opportunity. The Yankees can still make moves, spend smartly, and build a more well-rounded team.

Who knows? By the time Soto’s hobbling around Citi Field as a glorified pinch hitter, the Yankees could be hoisting another trophy—or two.  

In Hal we trust. Now, Hal, get us those pitchers and let’s go win something, shall we?

I HAVE THE PITCHING SOLUTION & IT AIN'T GARRETT CROCHET

Well, well, well, it looks like the Yankees are poking around the Garrett Crochet sweepstakes. Are they serious about it? Depends on who you ask. Chris Cotillo, who covers the Red Sox (and apparently has ears everywhere), stirred the pot on Twitter:

“Continue hearing Red Sox are just on the periphery of Garrett Crochet talks and are not aggressors at all, at least to this point. Cincinnati seen as a real threat to land Crochet. Yankees believed to be in, too.”

First off, I love the term "believed to be in." It’s like saying, “They might be into him, or they might just be browsing.” Classic Yankees: always lurking, rarely committing—until they do.

Let’s take a moment to appreciate the Yankees’ current pitching arsenal:

• Gerrit Cole – Cy Young winner. Enough said.
• Carlos Rodón – Fingers crossed he stays healthy.
• Nestor Cortes – Mustache magic.
• Luis Gil – Underrated gem.
• Clarke Schmidt – Solid, but still figuring things out.
• Marcus Stroman – Didn't even pitch in the playoffs.

Now, Crochet would certainly elevate that group. The man posted a very respectable 3.58 ERA last year while playing for the sad sack Chicago White Sox, a team that was so bad they made the Oakland A’s look competitive. Crochet also struck out 209 hitters, proving he’s got serious swing-and-miss stuff.

But what would it take to land Crochet? The White Sox, bless their little South Side hearts, are apparently asking for the moon. They’ve sniffed around the Yankees’ prized prospect Spencer Jones before but got a firm "nope." And why wouldn’t the Yankees play hardball? Jones is practically untouchable unless you’re sending Shohei Ohtani in return.

Chris Cotillo hints that the Yankees’ interest in Crochet might hinge on their failure to land Juan Soto, who is now a Mets. Let’s just say Steve Cohen is playing Monopoly with real money, and the Yankees are stuck trying to mortgage Baltic Avenue.

Crochet would give the Yankees some serious options. Add him to the rotation, and they could dangle someone like Clarke Schmidt or Luis Gil in a trade for another shiny toy. But here’s the kicker: the Yankees have cash to burn. Why trade?

Instead of flipping prospects for Crochet, why not flex those financial muscles and go after Max Fried or Corbin Burnes? We have the cash now... it didn't go to Soto. So imagine this rotation:

1. Gerrit Cole
2. Carlos Rodón
3. Max Fried
4. Corbin Burnes
5. anyone at all

That’s not just good; that’s unfair and I love it.  Pitching wins ballgames, and possibly even a World Series. Remember we didn't win with just Juan Soto.

But look, here's my hard take. I like Garrett Crochet as much as the next baseball nerd. But if the Yankees are going to start writing checks, write one for some free agent pitching instead? Go big or go home. Losing out on Soto stings, but this is the Yankees. They don’t rebuild; they reload and pitching is smart right now.

So Brian Cashman, if you’re reading this (and let’s be honest, you totally are), stop window-shopping and start splurging. Forget the trades—just buy the arms you need. And maybe send Steve Cohen a fruit basket to thank him for turning the Mets into the “most expensive third-place team” in MLB history.

Stay tuned, Yankees fans. Winter Meetings are just heating up, and who knows? Maybe the Bronx Bombers will finally decide to drop a bombshell of their own.

THE YANKEES & RED SOX ABOUT TO FIGHT FOR MAX FRIED

As you know, Max Fried’s time in Atlanta is looking as over as a fried chicken sandwich at lunchtime. Braves fans, brace yourselves—your ace is packing his bags, and his next stop is likely in a city where $200 million contracts flow like sweet tea in the South.

Bob Nightengale of USA Today Sports put it bluntly:

“They haven’t thrown a pitch in more than two months, but their stocks have soared thanks to the contracts given to pitchers whose resumes pale in comparison. When Matthew Boyd receives a 2-year, $29 million contract without throwing more than 79 innings since 2019, when Luis Severino is getting $67 million over three years and Blake Snell is making an average annual salary of $36.4 million, Burnes and Fried should top $200 million.”

Translation? Fried is about to get paid. Like, Scrooge McDuck diving into a vault paid. And why not? His resume is pure gold. Over 168 appearances (151 starts), he’s put up a dazzling 3.07 ERA, a tidy 1.16 WHIP, and racked up 863 strikeouts. Toss in two All-Star nods, three Gold Gloves, and a couple of Cy Young votes—one as the 2022 runner-up—and you’ve got a pitcher who’s not just good. He’s elite.

The Braves? Well, they’re not the Yankees or Red Sox when it comes to free-agent spending sprees. And let’s face it, Fried’s not sticking around for pocket change and a nice thank-you note. Nightengale didn’t hold back here, either:

“Fried priced himself out of Atlanta, but is expected to sign with the Yankees or Red Sox. If Soto goes to the Mets, Fried could find himself in a nice bidding war between the Red Sox and Yankees.”

Bidding war? You better believe it. The Yankees reportedly had a Zoom call with Fried that went “very well.” Translation: they’re already envisioning Fried carving up lineups in pinstripes. Meanwhile, the Red Sox have been hot on his trail from the jump, ready to throw Fenway-sized money at the lefty ace.

For Braves fans, this is a gut punch. Losing Fried stings. But Atlanta’s hands are tied here. Thanks to an offseason market that saw guys like Luis Severino and Blake Snell cash in big, Fried’s price tag rocketed into another stratosphere—one the Braves can’t afford.

Now, if it were up to me (and let’s pretend it is), I’d love to see the Yankees pivot to Corbin Burnes. Why not Burnes, you ask? He’s every bit as good as Fried and would add a Milwaukee-style kick to that rotation. But hey, what do I know? I’m just here for the drama.

For now, all eyes are on Fried and where he’ll land. Yankees or Red Sox? Either way, Braves fans will be watching through their fingers, wishing they could hold onto their ace just a little longer. Meanwhile, Fried is about to dive into a pile of cash that would make even his curveball jealous. Stay tuned.

THE STEVE COHEN BLUNDER HEARD 'ROUND THE WORLD

Well, Mets fans, you got him. Juan Soto, the golden goose of the offseason, is now wearing blue and orange. For the tidy sum of $765 million over 15 years—with a $75 million signing bonus, no less—the Mets have officially emptied the vault for a single player. And let’s be clear: this isn’t just any vault. This is Steve Cohen’s Scrooge McDuck-sized money pit. But before you start planning the championship parade down Flushing Meadows, let’s have a reality check; One Soto makes zero sense.

Fifteen years. Let that sink in. FIFTEEN YEARS. By the time this contract runs its course, I might be dead, and Soto might be using a cane to jog around the bases. The Mets are now shackled to a deal so long that fans will likely pass it down to their grandchildren. But don’t worry, Mets faithful, because apparently this is the move that will change everything. After all, who needs pitching, depth, or logic when you have Juan Soto?  Did the Mets learn anything from the Yankees in 2024? Nope.

This is Steve Cohen’s masterpiece: a $765 million gamble on one man. Was he paying attention? Sure, Juan's a great hitter, but have they noticed the Yankees—yes, the Bronx Bombers—were in the World Series this year with Soto and a full pitching staff? Guess what, Cohen? One player doesn’t get you a championship. Need more evidence? Go ask Mike Trout.

I applaud Hal Steinbrenner. Hal must be smirking behind his Excel spreadsheets. Sure, Hal’s as tight-fisted as they come, and Yankees fans will remind you of that daily. But at least the guy isn’t a complete fool. The Yankees’ 16-year, $760 million offer may not have landed Soto, but Hal is a businessman, not a walking ATM.

The Yankees didn’t overextend themselves into eternity. They tried, they failed and probably for the better. We had Soto in 2024 and made it to the World Series with him. But when it came time to win, we couldn't. When it came time to negotiate this off season, the Yankees had enough sense to consider the rest of the roster. Imagine that—prioritizing depth and balance over making the splashiest headline. 

The Bottom line is the Mets got robbed... the Mets got fleeced. Cohen essentially said, “Here, take my wallet, my house, and my dignity.” Soto walked away with the bag, and now the Mets are stuck holding the bill until 2039. Yes, that’s 2039. The flying cars might be here before this contract ends.

And what about the rest of the roster? The Mets’ rotation is thinner than a New York slice, and their bullpen? Let’s just say it’s not exactly championship-caliber. But sure, they’ve got Juan Soto! Enjoy watching him go 4-for-4 while your pitching gets shelled.

Cohen wanted to make a statement, and he did. Unfortunately, the statement was, “I have more money than common sense.” Mets fans, you may not want to hear it, but you just witnessed one of the most lopsided contracts in baseball history. And when Soto is hitting .220 in year 12 of this monstrosity, you’ll remember this day.

The Yankees may have lost Soto, but they didn’t lose their minds. Meanwhile, the Mets just threw a party for a deal that could haunt them for the next decade and a half. So enjoy your shiny new toy, Mets fans. Just don’t forget that championships aren’t won with press releases—they’re won with teams.

THE REVENGE OF SCOTT BORAS!

Is Scott Boras back on top again? Yes, but let's not confuse that with any sort of likeability factor. Last winter I had a lot to say about Boras. I definitely had my fun stirring the pot because, he just had an underwhelming winter for his clients. The massive contracts that were predicted for his big star clients never panned out. I laughed, and celebrated because let's face it....it's so easy to really dislike the guy and he just failed.

In June we said SOTO READY TO LET BORAS "DO HIS THING" EVEN THOUGH HE'S SUCKED AT IT LATELY.  We wondered if the baseball world finally had enough of Boras and his crap and that's why his big free agents didn't sign anywhere close to what they were projected to make. Suddenly, Boras had lost his touch. Jordan Montgomery was so disappointed in his deal, he ended up firing Boras! I said the market clearly didn't value his clients the way he did. He looked out of touch with baseball.

Fast forward a year later and everything has changed. Is it a comeback? I'm not sure if it's a comeback or just a rare gem of a client like Juan Soto. He's the white whale every team wants to land after Soto had multiple chances to sign a very profitable extension but turned them all down. Now Scott Boras is back to doing Scott Boras things.

Those Boras things right now, include an epic battle believed to be narrowed down to The New York Mets won the Soto Sweepstakes. Boras did a good job trying to suck every last dime out of both of these New York teams. It is like the revenge of Boras, back from sports agent failures of the past. Now negotiating a deal for his client worth around three quarters of a BILLION dollars. This is more than Shohei Ohtani money, folks. Suddenly, I can't say he sucks like I did at the beginning of the year.

In the end, Mets, win on more money and yes years than the Yankees, and if you're Boras, that's the goal right?

I do believe that Boras is back in a big way. He sucked last winter, but he doesn't right now. At the end of the day, this deal is done it is a new record and Boras and Soto get the last laugh.

--Jeana Bellezza-Ochoa

BYB Senior Managing Editor

Twitter: @nyprincessj

ROKI SASAKI: A YANKEE PIPE DREAM

Baseball’s version of a generational talent auction is here, and Roki Sasaki, the flamethrowing prodigy from Japan, is about to make MLB general managers everywhere wish they had an unlimited budget (or at least more convincing PowerPoint presentations). Jeff Passan of ESPN dropped the news today: Sasaki will be posted at the Winter Meetings, opening a 45-day frenzy after January 15th for teams to throw their proverbial hats—and wallets—into the ring.

For the Yankees, this is like showing up at a billionaire auction with a shiny nickel and a dream. The Bombers are not the frontrunners as it is being reported, but could you imagine a Yankees offseason where they didn’t at least act like they had a shot? The pinstripes are practically contractually obligated to wine, dine, and Zoom Sasaki in hopes of convincing him that the concrete jungle is better than, say, sunny Los Angeles or surfy San Diego.  

Let’s be honest: the Dodgers are like that kid in school who aces every test, wins class president, and still manages to be voted “Most Likely to Succeed.” They’ve already got Shohei Ohtani on speed dial and a West Coast address that screams, “Hey, you won’t need a snowblower here!” Add to that their reputation for turning talented players into Hall of Famers, and it’s no wonder they’re leading the charge.

Then there’s the Padres, baseball’s version of the scrappy underdog who occasionally punches way above their weight. They’ll likely try to lure Sasaki with promises of beaches, fish tacos, and a chance to dethrone the Dodgers in the NL West. San Diego might not have the Yankees’ or Dodgers history, but they’ve got that “Hey, we’re fun!” energy.

Now back to the Yankees. Yes, Sasaki is every scout’s dream—a 2.10 career ERA with 1,543 strikeouts in 394.2 innings in the NPB. That’s the kind of stat line that makes even the most stoic analytics guy get misty-eyed. The kid’s arm is so electric it might as well come with a surge protector.

The race for Roki Sasaki is shaping up to be a blockbuster. Will the Yankees play the underdog card and somehow win him over with the promise of Broadway shows and unlimited bagels? Will the Dodgers just flex their baseball empire muscle and sign him while barely breaking a sweat? Or will the Padres convince him that a SoCal vibe beats East Coast hustle?

Whatever happens, it’s going to be an offseason to remember. Stay tuned for what’s bound to be a wild ride.

JIM DUQUETTE & JON HEYMAN HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY ABOUT THE YANKEES BIG OFFER TO SOTO

Jim Duquette, former MLB general manager and now a respected baseball analyst, weighed in on the Yankees' rumored $700 million offer for superstar Juan Soto. Speaking candidly about the potential blockbuster deal, Duquette remarked, "The fact that the Yankees are supposedly over $700 million, if that in fact is true, I think he's going to be a Yankee."

As a longtime admirer of Duquette’s insight, I find his confidence in the Yankees’ ability to land Soto both reassuring and intriguing. Duquette’s deep knowledge of baseball economics and team-building makes his take worth noting, especially as the Yankees seem determined to pair Soto’s talent with their already star-studded lineup.

But here’s the catch: while Yankees fans might be ready to pop champagne at the thought of Soto in pinstripes, there’s an elephant in the room—and it’s wearing a Mets cap. Enter Steve Cohen, the Mets' billionaire owner with pockets deeper than the Mariana Trench. If Cohen decides Soto fits his vision for the Mets, he could easily swoop in with an even more extravagant offer.

That’s the scary part. Cohen has shown he’s not afraid to outspend everyone to get what he wants. While the Yankees' legacy and Soto's potential appeal for playing in the Bronx are strong selling points, money talks—and Cohen can make it scream.

However, Jon Heyman says it best when he says the Yankees have a secret weapon in this derby: Aaron Judge. Soto might end up making double what Judge earns, but the Yankees’ captain has already made it clear he doesn’t care. From the start, Judge said he wouldn’t mind if Soto signed a bigger deal, and that kind of selflessness could play a huge role in luring Soto to New York.

Heyman says Soto reportedly loves the idea of having Judge hitting behind him in the lineup and views him as the ideal clubhouse leader. Soto may be the most talented young hitter in baseball, but even the brightest stars benefit from a steady presence like Judge—a leader who knows what it takes to win in the Bronx.

So, while I share Duquette’s optimism about the Yankees’ chances, we can’t ignore the lurking presence of the Mets’ owner. If this offseason has taught us anything, it’s that no deal is done until it’s done. But with Judge in the fold and the Yankees pulling out all the stops, that Mets bubble will not stop bubbling.

Stay Tuned.

TEOSCAR HERNANDEZ: A TERRIFIC PLAN B

No, I'm not giving up on Soto, but I am thinking about what happens if we don't get him back in the Bronx.  If the Yanks aren't doing that we have a problem. You always have to be ready just in case.

Look, the Yankees are all-in on Juan Soto, and fans are already picturing his majestic swings sending balls to Mars—or at least into the second deck at Yankee Stadium. But with the Soto sweepstakes reaching absurd heights—$700 million over 15 years and counting—the Bombers might need a backup plan if they’re outbid by another team with even deeper pockets (we’re looking at you, Steve Cohen). Fear not, Yankees fans: Plan B doesn’t have to be boring. Say hello to Teoscar Hernández, the affordable power bat who could still light up the Bronx.

Let’s face it: losing out on Soto would sting. But snagging Teoscar Hernández wouldn’t just ease the pain; it might even make you forget you were chasing a $700 million dream. Coming off a stellar 2024 with the Dodgers, where he slashed .272/.339/.501 with 33 homers and 99 RBIs, Teoscar is the kind of under-the-radar superstar who can bring the thunder without the sticker shock.

The best part? At five years and $100 million (shoutout to Bleacher Report for the scoop), Hernández is a steal compared to Soto’s mega-deal. That leaves the Yankees with cash to throw at other shiny toys—like, say, Max Fried or Corbin Burnes. Imagine pairing Hernández’s bat with a reinforced rotation. That’s what we call winning the offseason without needing a billionaire’s piggy bank.

Teoscar’s not just about hitting bombs; he’s versatile, too. Sure, he’s most comfortable in right field, but sliding over to left is no problem for him. With Aaron Judge possibly patrolling center, Hernández would slide into left field like he’s been there all along. Oh, and did we mention he’s already got a shiny 2024 World Series ring from his time in L.A.? Bring on the postseason swagger.

Hernández wasn’t supposed to be here—at least not according to his 2023 season with the Mariners, which was, well, forgettable. But after signing a one-year, $23.5 million deal with the Dodgers, he exploded for a career-high 33 homers and helped carry them to a championship. That’s the kind of redemption arc Yankees fans eat up.

The Yankees are taking their shot at Soto. They always do. But if he ends up somewhere else (seriously, Steve Cohen, don’t ruin this for me), the Bombers aren’t sunk. Teoscar Hernández brings pop, versatility, and value to a team that needs all three. Plus, with the cash they save, they can chase another ace, upgrade a bench spot, or finally spring for that bullpen hot tub Yankee fans keep joking about.

Bottom line? Whether it’s Soto or Hernández, the Yankees are gearing up for 2025. And if Teoscar ends up being Plan B, he might just turn out to be Plan Brilliant.  Just saying...

Stay tuned.

THAIRO ESTRADA COULD BE BACK IN THE BRONX!

According to Mark Feinsand, the Yankees are considering a reunion with Thairo Estrada, a player with history in pinstripes who could provide affordable depth and competition at second base. Estrada, who was with the Yankees from 2019 to 2020, has spent the past few years showcasing his skills with the San Francisco Giants before hitting free agency this offseason.

Estrada's time in the Bronx was brief, and he never managed to secure a starting role. Quite honestly, he had no shot. The Yankees traded him to San Francisco in 2021, where he finally found his stride. With the Giants, Estrada blossomed into a versatile defender with surprising speed and sneaky power, tallying 15-homer potential and 20-steal capability during his best seasons. Even though his 2024 campaign was underwhelming (.217/.247/.343 with nine homers in 96 games), the 28-year-old's track record suggests he can still be a valuable piece for a team in need of a second baseman.

Estrada checks several boxes for New York:

1. Familiarity with the Organization: Having come up through the Yankees system, Estrada knows the team’s culture and expectations. He wouldn’t require a steep learning curve to adjust to the Bronx spotlight.
2. Affordability: Estrada isn’t expected to command a hefty contract, making him an appealing option for a team looking to address multiple offseason needs without breaking the bank.
3. MLB Experience: Unlike unproven prospects, Estrada brings some big-league experience and versatility, offering a dependable floor at second base.

With Gleyber Torres gone, the Yankees are exploring all options to fill the keystone position. Prospect Caleb Durbin is likely to compete for the spot, but Estrada’s versatility and experience could make him a favorite to secure the role if a high-profile star isn’t brought in and if Estrada becomes a Yankee again.

While Estrada’s most recent stats don’t leap off the page, his 2022 and 2023 performances—where he was an above-average hitter—prove his potential. Most importantly, he’s a low-risk option for a team that needs flexibility in my opinion.

In a game where bargains can turn into game-changers and as you know the Yankees love to do that, Estrada might just be the perfect fit to bring back to the Bronx.

GARY SANCHEZ IS BACK IN THE AMERICAN LEAGUE!

Remember when Gary Sanchez was "The Kraken," terrorizing pitchers and winning over Yankees fans with that sweet power swing? Yeah, those were good times… until you actually watched him catch. Then it felt like someone let a guy off the couch, slapped some gear on him, and said, “Go play.” The eye test wasn’t kind, folks—lazy blocks, wild stabs, and all the defensive finesse of a bowling ball rolling downhill. But hey, he could hit bombs, and for a while, we all squinted hard enough to pretend that was enough.

Fast forward to 2024, and guess what? Sánchez is back in the AL East! According to Jon Heyman of The New York Post, the Baltimore Orioles have signed him to a one-year deal worth $8.5 million. Yes, $8.5 million! For Gary Sánchez! Baseball truly is the land of second, third, and fourth chances.

Gary Sanchez to Orioles. One year.

— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) December 8, 2024

The O's plan to use Sánchez as the backup to franchise superstar Adley Rutschman, because, let’s face it, Rutschman is too good to sit often. Sánchez is the "break glass in case of emergency" guy for when Adley needs a day off. Maybe Gary can even DH occasionally, just to remind us all that, yes, he can still hit a baseball into orbit every now and then.

Now, to Sánchez’s credit, he did have a mini-resurgence with the Padres last year. After bouncing around like a baseball vagabond, he managed to crush 19 home runs in 260 plate appearances and post a respectable .218/.292/.500 slash line. Sure, the batting average wasn’t going to make Ted Williams rise from the grave, but it ain’t bad. It was enough to get him a gig in Milwaukee, where he backed up William Contreras and occasionally lumbered over to first base or DH duties. Serviceable? Sure. Inspiring? Let’s not get carried away.

Now, Orioles GM Mike Elias has decided to roll the dice on Sánchez. Maybe he thinks Gary’s got some veteran wisdom to impart to Rutschman. Or maybe Elias just wanted a catcher who can make Adley look even better by comparison. Either way, it’s a bold strategy.

For Orioles fans, this signing is a little like ordering a Big Mac after watching a five-star chef prepare a steak—it gets the job done, but it’s not what you’re really excited about. At least Sánchez can still hit the occasional monster homer, which should be fun at Camden Yards. Just don’t expect miracles behind the plate, unless your idea of a miracle is catching the ball most of the time.

I HAVE MAD RESPECT FOR CLAY HOLMES

The Mets made waves Friday, snatching up a free agent from the Yankees—but not that free agent. No, Juan Soto is still out there deliberating on where to spend the next 12-15 years of his life, but in the meantime, the Mets locked down Clay Holmes on a three-year, $38 million deal (pending a physical). While it might not be Soto-level headlines, this signing is intriguing for one big reason: Holmes, a reliever for a while now, wants to be a starter.

Let’s pause for dramatic effect.

Yes, Clay Holmes, a man who has spent seven years coming out of the bullpen, has decided it’s time to embrace his inner Justin Verlander. To his credit, he’s got guts. Holmes has been a reliable (though occasionally nerve-wracking) reliever, posting a career ERA+ of 113 across 311 games—307 of which were relief appearances. But now, at 31 years old, Holmes is ready to reinvent himself. If nothing else, you’ve got to respect the audacity.

Holmes didn’t exactly burst onto the MLB scene. Drafted by the Pirates, he spent seven years in the minors and then three-plus seasons as a middling reliever in Pittsburgh, where he compiled a forgettable 4.93 ERA. Then, like a phoenix rising from the ashes—or maybe just a guy who needed a change of scenery—Holmes found new life with the Yankees.

When the Yankees acquired him at the 2021 trade deadline for two minor leaguers (who are probably running batting cages somewhere), Holmes immediately clicked. He slashed his ERA to 1.61 in 25 games and quickly became a bullpen staple. By 2022, he replaced Aroldis Chapman as closer, made his first All-Star team, and looked like the Yankees’ new ninth-inning sheriff.

But then came 2023. Holmes started 2023 strong but hit turbulence late in the season. By September, he was removed from the closer’s role after racking up 13 blown saves. The Yankees pivoted, using him in a setup role during their postseason run, where he pitched respectably (2.25 ERA with 12 strikeouts in 12 innings). Still, the shine had dimmed, and questions about his long-term role swirled.

Apparently, Holmes had an answer: starter.  Enter the Mets, who are apparently feeling experimental these days. They’ve signed Holmes with the plan to convert him into a starter, despite his complete lack of experience in the role at the major-league level. The Mets clearly see potential, and hey, $38 million isn’t chump change. Maybe they’re hoping for another Nathan Eovaldi-type reinvention. Or maybe they just really like rolling the dice.

As for Yankees fans, it’s hard not to feel a mix of emotions...slightly. On one hand, Holmes’ bullpen heroics in 2021 and 2022 earned him a lot of goodwill. On the other hand, there’s something oddly satisfying about seeing the balls on this guy wanting to start a new in Queens in a pretty significant role. It takes guts to pivot your career after all these years, especially under the bright lights of New York. That said, I’m skeptical. Reinventing yourself as a starter at this stage is a tall order, and Holmes’ track record doesn’t scream “ace material.”

At the end of the day though, there’s mad respect for Holmes taking this leap. It’s not every day a two-time All-Star reliever says, “You know what? Let’s rewrite the script.” Whether it works out or not, Holmes deserves credit for betting on himself—and for pocketing $38 million while doing it.

WILLY ADAMES APPEARS TO BE HEADED TO SAN FRANCISCO

Jeff Passan at ESPN broke the news, and we’re still processing it: Willy Adames is heading to the San Francisco Giants on a seven-year, $182 million deal, the biggest in their history. Yes, Giants fans, your team just made it rain! The deal is pending a physical but barring some wild twist, like Adames growing a second head, it’s happening.

Adames, 29, earned every penny after a stellar 2024 where he belted 32 home runs, drove in 112 RBIs, and played an MLB-leading 161 games at shortstop. Sure, his .251/.331/.462 slash line wasn’t exactly Soto-esque, but let’s face it, that kind of consistency is why San Francisco decided to open their vault.

Meanwhile, over in the Bronx, we’re left wondering if this could be a sign of things to come—and not in a good way. Adames was reportedly the backup plan if the Yankees somehow couldn’t land Juan Soto. Now, with Adames off the board, it’s Soto or bust. Brian Cashman, this is your official reminder: DO NOT bust.

Congratulations to the Giants on their shiny new shortstop, but us Yankee fans can’t help but feel like we’re watching everyone else play Monopoly with stacks of cash while we’re over here collecting $200 and calling it a win. If we lose out on both Adames and Soto, you’ll find us over at Bleeding Yankee Blue starting a support group.

For now, tip your cap to Adames on his well-deserved payday—and Yankees, get it done with Soto. No excuses.