THE MORE I THOUGHT ABOUT IT, HOW STUPID FOR THE YANKEES TO PASS ON KIM?

At first, I was just annoyed the Yankees didn’t go after Ha-Seong Kim. The guy is a perfect fit—an elite defender, a solid baserunner, and a guy who, at the very least, would’ve been a massive upgrade over the mess they have at third base. But the more I think about it, the more it blows my mind just how stupid it was for the Yankees to sit this one out.

Money wasn’t an issue. The Yankees have money. They print money. And in case anyone forgot, the Tampa Bay Rays—the kings of penny-pinching—are literally paying the Yankees to use their stadium this year. Thanks to Hurricane Milton ripping the roof off of Tropicana Field, the Rays will be playing their home games at Steinbrenner Field in 2025. That little arrangement? It’s projected to bring the Yankees an extra $15 million in revenue.

So, let’s get this straight: the Yankees are cashing checks from their own division rival—one of the most budget-conscious teams in all of baseball—and yet somehow it was the Rays who found the money to sign Kim? How does that make any sense? The Yankees had a glaring need, the means to fill it, and still passed while the small-market Rays swooped in and got the deal done.

And don’t even try to argue that Kim’s contract was an overpay. The deal was more than reasonable. In fact, it’s the kind of smart, mid-tier move that championship-caliber teams make to solidify their roster. Instead, the Yankees watched from the sidelines, seemingly content to roll with Oswaldo Cabrera, Oswald Peraza, and whatever is left of DJ LeMahieu.

The more you sit with it, the dumber it gets. The Yankees had the opportunity, they had the resources, and they had the money coming in from the Rays of all teams—and they still didn’t make the move. It’s not just frustrating; it’s flat-out embarrassing.

WHEN JETER SPEAKS, WE LISTEN

Ever since the Yankees shook loose from Juan Soto, this offseason has been nothing short of wild. They’re spending big, making moves, and for once, it actually feels like they’re going all in. And you know what? It’s been awesome.

But here’s the thing—no matter how much action is happening in the Bronx, there’s one voice that always cuts through the noise. One guy who, when he speaks about the Yankees, we all stop and listen. That, of course, is the Captain himself, Derek Jeter.

Jeter recently sat down with SportsCasting.com to share his thoughts on the state of the Yankees—both in life with Soto and now, after moving on. And as always, he kept it cool, professional, and straight to the point:

“They did a good job... You always want to try to improve your team. I’m sure you ask anyone in the organization, they have improved as a whole. The great thing about playing for the Yankees is pretty much every season you have an opportunity to get to the postseason. 

And they made it to the World Series last year... Obviously, they fell a little bit short. But now they’re retooling and getting ready for this season. It’s the strongest organizations that win. It’s not necessarily the strongest roster at the major league level because there’s injuries and people come, and people go. I think right now, the Yankees are in a good spot, just like a few other teams.”

That’s Jeter for you—never too high, never too low, always locked in on the bigger picture. But let’s be real: this is the same guy who has always said that making it to the World Series and losing? That’s a failed season. He’s being diplomatic here, but deep down, we know he’s not giving out any participation trophies.

And honestly? That’s why we love him. The Yankees could be building a powerhouse, or they could be setting themselves up for heartbreak—but either way, hearing from the Captain just makes everything feel right.

JUDGE UNDERFIRE FOR STEPPING IN TO PROTECT HIS TEAMMATE

The Yankees' front office is catching some heat after reports surfaced that team captain Aaron Judge stepped in to block a roster move involving DJ LeMahieu. According to multiple sources, the Yankees were on the verge of designating LeMahieu for assignment last season, but Judge, along with other veteran players, intervened, insisting that the veteran infielder still had plenty of value if healthy.

Eric Hubbs of Barstool Sports broke the story, saying: “Yankees were prepared to designate DJ LeMahieu for assignment when Jasson Domínguez was called up, but Aaron Judge and other vets stepped in to prevent the move.” And honestly? Good. That’s what leadership looks like. That’s what having your teammate’s back looks like. But instead of recognizing this as a prime example of team chemistry and respect, some critics are clutching their pearls, crying about how Judge overstepped by influencing the front office. Give me a break.

Let’s be real here—big-time players influence decisions all the time. The same people complaining that players shouldn’t meddle in front-office decisions are the first ones to celebrate when a star player helps recruit a big free agent. You can’t have it both ways. 

The front office isn’t in that dugout every day. They aren’t grinding through 162 games alongside these guys. The players see firsthand who still has something left in the tank, and Judge clearly believes LeMahieu does. If DJ was truly washed, Judge wouldn’t have put his neck on the line for him. Simple as that.

Now, is LeMahieu coming off a brutal season? Absolutely. There’s no sugarcoating the fact that he was one of the least productive hitters in baseball in 2024. But let’s not act like injuries didn’t play a major role in his struggles. The guy isn’t some random benchwarmer—he’s a former MVP candidate with a track record of success. To completely write him off because of one down year is ridiculous, especially when he still has two years left on his contract. How many times have we seen great players bounce back after an injury-riddled season? The Yankees front office should know better than anyone that talent doesn’t just vanish overnight.

And let’s not forget, the majority of Yankees fans—probably around 80%—still believe in LeMahieu. They know he’s capable of rebounding. More importantly, so does Judge. His leadership has never been in question, and the fact that he was willing to go to bat for his teammate speaks volumes about both his character and the kind of clubhouse culture the Yankees should want to build.

So, for all the critics whining about Judge stepping in—maybe take a step back and realize this is what leadership looks like. If the Yankees are going to be a winning team, they need that unity. And if LeMahieu goes out and proves everyone wrong in 2025? 

You’re going to owe Judge an apology.

HAL CAN'T BE SERIOUS ABOUT EXTENDING "NO CHAMPIONSHIPS" BOONE...

The mere fact that a contract extension for Aaron Boone is even on the table is an absolute disgrace. The New York Yankees, once the gold standard of winning, are now being reduced to a joke under the feckless leadership of Hal Steinbrenner and his incompetent front office.

Boone has won nothing. Not a single meaningful accomplishment to his name. Oh wait, he hit a home run against the Red Sox in the ALCS over 20 years ago... then busted his ankle the next season. But here we are, watching Hal Steinbrenner seriously consider extending his tenure as if failure is now the standard. Boone has had teams capable of competing for championships, but his tenure has been marred by playoff collapses, baffling in-game decisions, and a complete inability to inspire urgency or accountability. And yet, instead of cutting ties with this loser, the Yankees’ leadership is thinking about rewarding him. It’s beyond absurd.

Steinbrenner recently admitted that the Yankees will be speaking with Boone "in the days and weeks to come" regarding a contract extension. This would be his second extension despite his repeated failures in October. The fact that Boone has lasted this long is already an indictment of the Yankees’ current state. Extending him further? That would be sheer incompetence at its peak.

Boone initially signed a three-year deal in 2018, followed by another three-year extension in 2021, which included an option for 2025. Why? Because under Hal Steinbrenner’s soft and clueless leadership, the Yankees value familiarity over results. Brian Cashman has openly stated that the team envisioned Boone being a decade-long manager. For what reason? Joe Torre got 12 years and won four championships. Joe Girardi got 10 years and delivered a title while enduring the toughest post-dynasty era. And yet Boone, who has consistently failed when it matters most, is somehow being given the same treatment as if he’s earned anything.

Let’s be honest: Joe Girardi was fired because he wasn’t a pushover. He challenged the front office, held players accountable, and demanded excellence. That was the kind of manager George Steinbrenner would have respected. But Hal Steinbrenner, in his infinite mediocrity, would rather enable Boone—a man who makes terrible in-game decisions, refuses to hold his team accountable, and believes brushing off failure with empty platitudes is acceptable.

The Yankees used to be synonymous with excellence. Now, under Hal, they are just another team content with regular-season wins and postseason embarrassments. Boone was never the right guy for the job, and he never will be. But Hal Steinbrenner, the most inept and spineless owner in Yankees history, seems dead set on doubling down on failure.

Us Yankee fans deserve better. They deserve a front office that prioritizes championships, not one that continues to enable mediocrity. If Boone gets extended, it will be the final confirmation that winning is no longer the Yankees’ priority—because under Hal, it’s clear that failure is perfectly acceptable.

Yuk.

YANKEE FAN FAVORITE MICHAEL KING BACK ON THE TRADING BLOCK?

Yankees fans loved Michael King. The front office did too. But when Juan Soto in his prime was up for grabs, there was no time for second thoughts. So, King was sent to San Diego, and—surprise, surprise—he thrived. He put up a 2.95 ERA over a career-high 173.2 innings, striking out 10.42 batters per nine. A total win for the Padres.

But here’s where things get interesting. Empire Sports Media just dropped this nugget, saying:

“The Padres appear open to dealing with him, as they are reportedly listening to trade offers. Given King’s breakout season and the fact that he is still under team control, he immediately becomes one of the most attractive trade chips on the market.”

So, if you’re the Yankees, how do you not at least make the call? King was once a Yankee, a good soldier, and he’d be a seamless fit back in the rotation.

But while they’re at it… why not aim even higher?

The Yankees have been linked to Luis Arraez all offseason as ESM points out, and while Aaron Boone’s lackluster WFAN interview hinted at DJ LeMahieu, Oswald Peraza, and Oswaldo Cabrera splitting infield duties, the rumor mill keeps spinning. If San Diego is open for business, the Yankees could explore a deal that brings back King and lands them an elite contact hitter to balance out their lineup.

Meanwhile, across town, the Mets have been relatively quiet after signing Soto—besides picking up the very chatty AJ Minter. Their rotation, though? A whole lot of uncertainty.

As BVM Sports points out:

“The Mets do not have a lot of proven commodities in their starting rotation. Sean Manaea will return after a career year and so will Kodai Senga after only making one start during the 2024 regular season. The hope is Frankie Montas can bounce back and David Peterson continues to excel, but neither pitcher is guaranteed to have success. King would be one of the most reliable pitchers in New York’s rotation and could be their ace by the end of the season.”

It makes perfect sense for the Mets to go after King—but are they actually in the mix? That’s still unclear.

Michael King is a hot commodity. The Yankees could try to bring him back. The Mets should make a move. And another team will eventually pounce.

Who’s going to step up? We’ll find out soon. Stay tuned.

IS THIS CATCHER ABOUT TO BACK UP AUSTIN WELLS?

Catcher, catcher, who will be the backup catcher?

There's actually talk about this and to be honest, I was too wrapped up in the rotation and infield and didn't realize we're kind of in a bad place in this position.

The Yankees have their starting catcher in Austin Wells... and that's about it.  Right now, the backup options aren’t exactly inspiring, no offense. The only other catchers on the active roster that I can see are J.C. Escarra and Jesus Rodriguez. Rodriguez, at just 22 years old, is still a work in progress, and Escarra, 29, has yet to make his MLB debut. Let’s be real—both will likely spend most (if not all) of the season in the minors. 

So, what’s the plan, Yankees?

Wells is solid, but let’s not pretend he’s the second coming of Jorge Posada. Catchers take a beating, injuries happen, and having a reliable backup is a must. That’s why the latest buzz about veteran James McCann is actually pretty intriguing.

McCann, a former All-Star, spent 2024 as the Orioles’ backup, hitting .231 with eight homers and 31 RBIs while mentoring Adley Rutschman. He’s a seasoned pro with over a decade of MLB experience and could be the perfect guy to not only provide depth but also help Wells develop.

Bringing in McCann would give the Yankees a steady, experienced presence behind the plate—someone who’s been through the grind and knows how to handle a pitching staff. Plus, he wouldn’t cost a fortune. It’s still just a rumor at this point, but honestly? This move makes a ton of sense.

Will the Yankees pull the trigger? We’ll have to wait and see.

JEFF PASSAN JUST PUT THE YANKEES ON BLAST!

SHOTS FIRED! I love some good baseball drama....and this is definitely some off field drama. Baseball insider Jeff Passan was a guest on The Michael Kay Show, and he didn't hold back on how he sees the current state of the Yankees and Hal Steinbrenner's perceived lack of spending this winter.

"If the (luxury tax) penalties are so tough, then why are the Dodgers and Mets doing it? The Mets have been the past two years, and they've shown a willingness to go there," Passan said on Kay's podcast. "And at the end of the day, these are the New York freaking Yankees. If a luxury tax threshold is impeding them, that says more about where they are than it does the luxury tax itself. When have the Yankees ever played third fiddle in baseball? That's where they are right now when it comes to spending."

I will say this, it's not for a lack of trying by the Yankees. They made a HUGE offer to Juan Soto and it may have limited other additions to the team if Soto had accepted. The Yankees pivoted and made some good moves to strengthen both the infield and the outfield especially with a big commitment made to Max Fried. We improved several areas, especially within the infield and I really don't think we are completely done.

The Yankees traditionally spend money. We can't call them cheap when they spent well over $300 million in payroll last year and they had the second highest payroll only behind the New York Mets. You can argue that the Yankees don't spend their money wisely (and I do!) but saying they don't spend money is just false. 

The Mets are operating at a loss, it's not up for debate that Steve Cohen is paying out of pocket but he's also worth $22 billion dollars! The Dodgers ownership group has a large net worth so they also have money to spend AND have proven they will defer money as they see fit to try and avoid stiff penalties. The idea of deferring $1.3 BILLION dollars blows my mind. The Yankees should go over the luxury tax to make the last few upgrades they need in order to win a championship, but I think we need to recognize there is new, bigger money in baseball. The Yankees are "old" money, and the Dodgers and Mets are "new" money. It's a new baseball world whether we like it or not.

And as the Yankees are competing against the "new money" Dodgers and Mets, they are also operating in a much different mindset. When George Steinbrenner was alive, the Yankees were a life passion for him. He spent the money because he wanted to win and that was what mattered most to him. Now we have "new" vision Hal running the team, and he's not running it as passion.... it's a business for him. Businesses are all about the bottom line. He wants to win, but not with the same determination or drive his dad did.

So I understand why Passan is throwing shade because no team in the old-world order outspent the Yankees. Everything changes over time and even if other teams are spending more, they certainly aren't being cheap. If this is Passan's way of motivating the Yankees to re-sign Tim Hill or a strong third basemen then I am all for it because honestly.... I want Hill back BAD!

--Jeana Bellezza-Ochoa

BYB Senior Managing Editor

Twitter: @nyprincessj

YANKS LOSE OUT ON HA-SEONG KIM

I’ve been shouting from the rooftops about how the Yankees should have signed Ha-Seong Kim, but here we are—he’s officially a Tampa Bay Ray. It would’ve been the perfect move for New York, but let’s be honest, Kim clearly wasn’t eager to take on the pressure of playing in the Bronx. Instead, he found a situation that worked better for him—a two-year, $29 million deal with Tampa. Right price, right fit, less spotlight.

Infielder Ha-Seong Kim and the Tampa Bay Rays are in agreement on a two-year, $29 million contract that includes an opt-out after the first season, sources tell ESPN. Kim is coming off shoulder surgery but is expected to return in May and slated to take over at shortstop.

— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) January 29, 2025

Meanwhile, Aaron Boone is already preaching about how the Yankees have a “strategy” for their infield, which, let’s be real, just means they’re sticking with DJ LeMahieu and Oswaldo Cabrera. That’s fine, I guess, but let’s not pretend it was the grand plan all along. The truth is, the Yankees weren’t going to do anything unless they cleared some payroll—meaning they needed to move Marcus Stroman’s contract. That didn’t happen, so guess what? Kim is in Tampa, and the Yankees are standing pat.

It is what it is. Frustrating? Sure. But life moves on, and so do the Yankees—whether it’s in the right direction or not remains to be seen.

TOMMY KAHNLE IS GONZO

The Tigers have signed reliever Tommy Kahnle to a one-year, $7.75 million contract, ending—at least for now—his third stint with the Yankees. New York loses one of its most reliable postseason arms from 2024.

Not everyone is thrilled about the move. The Detroit Free Press isn’t impressed, citing concerns about Kahnle’s control and durability:

"The first red flag: His walk rate has been below average in each of the past two seasons, at 11.5% in 2023 and 10.6% in 2024. The second red flag: Kahnle, who underwent Tommy John surgery in August 2020, has missed at least two months in each of the past three seasons with arm injuries."

Clearly, DFP isn’t a fan. But personally? I like Kahnle. I was hoping the Yankees would bring him back.

Meanwhile, the Tigers have been busy this offseason, adding three free agents—all on one-year deals. Along with Kahnle, they signed right-hander Alex Cobb and infielder Gleyber Torres to contracts worth $15 million each.

Best of luck to Tommy!

METS DISFUNCTION, MINTER, ALONSO & MAD MAX CHAOS

When we last checked in on A.J. Minter and his newly discovered hatred for the Yankees, it was equal parts baffling and laughable. Here’s a guy who’s never been involved in the so-called “rivalry” between the Yankees and Mets, yet he’s posturing as if he’s a historian of New York baseball. Minter, let me save you some embarrassment—zip it. You clearly don’t know what you’re talking about. If you’re trying to stir the pot, at least do some homework first. Jeana Bellezza nailed it in her piece ARE THE YANKEES AND METS REALLY RIVALS? Go read it, Minter—you might learn something. Shut your pie hole.

But now, thanks to his misplaced commentary, Minter has officially secured a spot on the list of people Yankees fans can roll their eyes at. He didn’t have to try hard; he just had to be himself. Over at Yanks Go Yard, they dissected this whole debacle perfectly. Ever since Steve Cohen took over as the Mets’ owner, there’s been a growing chorus of Mets fans declaring their team the kings of New York. Minter seemed to hop on this train by insinuating that “real fans” support the Mets, while Yankees fans are just bandwagoners who “don’t know baseball.” It’s a laughable narrative, but apparently, some people have bought into it. Spoiler alert: this argument has all the depth of a kiddie pool.

Here’s the reality: the Mets have been underdogs for most of their existence. There’s nothing wrong with that—it’s actually part of their charm. But ever since Cohen started throwing around Monopoly money like he’s playing on easy mode, things have gotten… complicated. David Stearns is now stuck trying to make sense of Cohen’s spending spree, which included an eye-popping sum for Juan Soto, but apparently no budget left to re-sign cornerstone players like Pete Alonso. Instead, they’ve resorted to scraping the bargain bin, picking up guys like Minter and Winker. It’s giving off major “we blew all our money on the main course and forgot about dessert” energy.

And yet, Cohen and his fans seem to think they’ve dethroned the Yankees as New York’s team. History, however, tells a different story. The Yankees are the most decorated franchise in baseball history. The Mets, meanwhile, have made headlines for things like Bobby Bonilla Day and collapses so epic they could headline a Broadway show. Sure, Cohen has tried to reshape the narrative, but no amount of PR spin can erase decades of reality. The Yankees have rings. The Mets have regrets.

But let’s talk about Cohen’s grand plan—or lack thereof. Sure, he shelled out a fortune for Soto, but at what cost? Alonso, arguably the heart and soul of the Mets, is still waiting for a contract that makes sense. Meanwhile, the roster looks like a mismatched puzzle. Even Mets fans are starting to question what they signed up for.

Chants of "We Want Pete" at an Amazin' Day event featuring David Stearns, Steve Cohen and Carlos Mendoza

➡️ Tri-State @Cadillac pic.twitter.com/J1ScpvmjW6

— SNY (@SNYtv) January 25, 2025

 They wanted a ruthless owner who’d do whatever it takes to win, but now they’re realizing that kind of ruthlessness comes with strings attached. The team has lost its identity, and the front office looks more like a soap opera than a well-oiled machine.

Hearing Mets have some level of interest in reuniting with Max Scherzer on a one-year deal https://t.co/SV4afFFaB4

— Pat Ragazzo (@ragazzoreport) January 24, 2025

And now, because the Mets can’t seem to help themselves, they’re reportedly sniffing around Max Scherzer. Again. According to Pat Ragazzo on SI, the Mets were one of several teams to watch Scherzer throw a bullpen session and are considering signing him to a one-year deal. The question is: are they doing this because they genuinely think it’s a good move, or are they just trying to keep pace with the Yankees? Honestly, it feels like a little of both. The last time the Mets brought in Scherzer, it ended in disaster. But hey, why not rinse and repeat?

Here’s the bottom line: since Cohen took the reins, the Mets have managed to spend more money than anyone thought possible, yet somehow still feel strapped for cash and short on answers. Sure, they’re inching closer to the World Series, but at what cost? They’ve lost their sense of direction, and their roster-building strategy looks like it was pulled from a hat. And all of this seems to stem from one thing: Cohen’s obsession with beating the Yankees. He overpaid for Soto just to ensure he didn’t lose out to the Yankees, and now he’s saddled the team with financial constraints that make the Wilpons look responsible by comparison.

In the end, though, the results speak for themselves. The Yankees remain the standard of excellence, while the Mets are still trying to figure out who they are. As Derek Jeter once famously said, they’re “just the Mets.” And no amount of money—or bad takes from A.J. Minter—is going to change that.

LAME BOONE JUST REVEALED THE YANKEES PLANS...

And it's a whole lot of old news.

Another day, another useless Aaron Boone interview where he says absolutely nothing of value. The guy is a glorified Yankees PR puppet, not a real manager. He’s a lousy decision-maker when the game is on the line, and he’s somehow still in charge of this team. Boone graced the airwaves of WFAN, and if his words were any indication, the Yankees seem done for the offseason.

Boone—ever the master of stating the obvious—said he’ll "likely" have Cody Bellinger in center field and Jasson Domínguez in left. Wow, groundbreaking stuff! Who could’ve possibly predicted that? Oh, right—everyone. There was some chatter that Spencer Jones might make a push to compete with Domínguez, but not from Boone. The surprise twist? Everson Pereira might be in the mix for an outfield spot. Didn’t really see that one coming, but hey, at least there’s something mildly interesting in Boone’s word salad. And of course, Bellinger’s ability to shift between first base and the outfield was mentioned as if we didn’t already know that.

But Boone wasn’t done blessing us with more of the same. He also dropped another "big" update: the team is considering moving Jazz Chisholm back to second base and having  DJ LeMahieu, Oswaldo Cabrera, and Oswald Peraza split time at 3rd. Shocking. Absolutely nobody saw that coming. Oh wait, yes, we did. Bleeding Yankee Blue has been reporting on that in between every rumor tying the Yankees to every available infielder on the planet. It’s almost like Boone just reads BYB headlines and regurgitates them with zero additional insight.

So, to summarize: Boone talked, but nothing new was said. It’s like he has a magical ability to drain the life out of every "update" he gives. 

The real question is, why is this guy still the Yankees' manager? How much longer do we have to suffer through his mind-numbing press conferences? Can we just fast-forward to Spring Training already? Better yet, can we fast-forward to the part where Boone finally gets fired? Because, honestly, that’s the only real update I’m waiting for.

DODGERS SPENDING HABITS ARE TOO MUCH FOR THE YANKEES

Could it be possible that the spotlight of evil is off the Yankees? The Athletic thinks so. In fact their quote is this, "Maybe the Evil Empire really has relocated to the West Coast." Yes, maybe, and eventually they have to pay up. I feel like they just keep racking in the "Bobby Bonillas". In case you don't know, this was the contract the New York Mets agreed on in order to bring in and eventually cut Bonilla back in 2001. He is paid every July 1 through 2035. The Dodgers have a few of those kinds of contracts. In fact, "The Dodgers have committed nearly a half-billion in guaranteed dollars to players this offseason, second only to the New York Mets, who signed Juan Soto to a historic 15-year, $765 million deal." So it is safe to say that the Dodgers spending habits are wide and deep, perhaps too deep for the Yankees.

According to The Athletic, "This winter, the Dodgers made the following big-money signings: Lefty starting pitcher Blake Snell, five years, $182 million; lefty reliever Tanner Scott, four years, $72 million; outfielder Teoscar Hernández, three years, $66 million; righty reliever Blake Treinen, two years, $22 million; outfielder Michael Conforto, one year, $17 million; and infielder Hyeseong Kim, three years, $12.5 million. They also landed Japanese free-agent starting pitcher Roki Sasaki, the most coveted international prospect of the winter." This is in addition of course to Shohei Ohtani, Freddie Freeman, Mookie Betts, Max Muncy, must I go on? You can see the whole payroll here.

But the Yankees haven't been quiet in the off season. They have made some upgrades for sure. But not quite at the expense that the Dodgers have. They have picked up starting pitcher Max Fried, veteran first base man Paul Goldschmidt, outfield Cody Bellinger and likely the best closer in the game right now in Devin Williams. Yet, still, the Death Star march plays for the Dodgers who have positioned themselves as not only the team to beat but the team to hate.

What likely adds salt to the Yankees wounds is that the Dodgers are favored to repeat in 2025, perhaps a rematch in the Fall Classic with their rival Bombers. But I think Hal Steinbrenner has the right mindset here, “They still have to have a season relatively injury-free for it to work out for them, and it’s a long season, as you know, and once you get to the postseason, anything can happen. We’ve seen that time and time again. We’ll see who’s there at the end.” He's right. The season is unforgiving. And injuries are inevitable. It is about who is left standing at the end. And this year, the Yankees hope it's them and that they have done enough.

With Spring Training only a few weeks away, the anticipation for the new season is high. Will the Yankees start early and stay strong? My prediction is yes. They have a good start; they lead the East through the All-Star Break, and they have a heck of half of a season. But guess what, so do the Dodgers. So, then it really comes down to do the dollar pay for endurance and greatness? We shall see. It will be interesting to watch what money can pay for. 

--Suzie Pinstripe
BYB Senior Managing Editor
Twitter: @suzieprof

TIM MAYZA IS GONZO

The Pittsburgh Pirates are rolling the dice on lefty Tim Mayza, who’s reportedly locking in a one-year, $1.15 million deal—pending a physical—per MLB.com sources. And hey, good for him! But if we’re being honest, I’ve always been more of a Tim Hill guy anyway, no offense.

Mayza had a bit of a rough go in 2024, but he still managed to keep lefties in check, holding them to a .244 average—something the Pirates' bullpen could definitely use. He spent part of last season with Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, where he dominated with a 2.16 ERA before earning a call-up to the Yankees on Aug. 16. In 15 big-league appearances, he posted a 4.00 ERA over 18 innings with 12 strikeouts. Despite the solid effort, the Yankees cut him loose in November, making him a free agent.

Now, Mayza gets a fresh start in Pittsburgh. Let’s see if he can make the most of it!

ALL THAT CHATTER ABOUT CARLOS CORREA FOR WHAT?

Remember back in early January when the rumor mill went absolutely bananas with talk about Carlos Correa possibly landing with the Yankees? Yeah, that was wild. My source? None other than Pete Caldera, a dude who doesn’t mess around when it comes to reporting. If Caldera’s saying it, you better believe I’m paying attention.

I even wrote about it over at Bleeding Yankee Blue in a piece titled A BIG CARLOS CORREA NUGGET JUST DROPPED IN MY LAP. I said:

“According to Caldera’s report in NorthJersey.com, the Yankees might be willing to part with three of their top six prospects—George Lombard Jr., Chase Hampton, and Will Warren—to acquire Correa from the struggling Minnesota Twins.”

And then? Well, life happened. The rumors cooled off in the Bronx, and I totally forgot about it. There’s just so much out there—it’s like trying to keep track of a million spinning plates.

Fast forward to now, and I get an email from Raymond, a fellow Yankees fan and BYB reader who’s clearly been holding onto this story tighter than a 3-2 slider with the game on the line. He wrote:

"How’s it going, Casey? Raymond here. I was so hyped when I heard my guy, Carlos Correa, was rumored to be heading to the Yankees. But after Pete Caldera and a few analysts started speculating trade packages, it all went radio silent. Honestly, I think Minnesota’s going to move him eventually, but I have no clue why they haven’t yet. Whenever you can give a random fan some peace of mind, I’d appreciate it."

Raymond, my guy, here’s the deal: I don’t know. I wish I had a crystal ball, but I don’t and I am sorry about that. What I do know is that ClutchPoints recently gave us a little update. According to them, there was a moment when Correa’s name popped up in Twins trade chatter, but Minnesota shut that down real quick. And Correa himself? He’s unbothered.

He’s got a full no-trade clause, loves Minnesota, and is out here saying stuff like, “I don’t worry about that, brother. I’m not on social media much. I’m with my kids all day. And I love Minnesota. I love the fishing here.”

Fishing! This man is living his best life while we’re over here spinning trade scenarios. 

So, Raymond, for now, that’s where we’re at. If I hear anything new, you’ll be the first to know. Sit tight and keep the faith, my friend.

HUGE INTERNATIONAL SIGNING THE YANKEES LOVE & US FANS WILL TOO

The Yankees continue to make notable moves on the international front, and for fans, that’s more than enough to feel optimistic about this offseason. Even without Roki Sasaki in the mix, the team is building for the future—and things are looking bright. As a Yankees fan, I can confidently say I’m happy again.

The latest buzz comes from NJ.com and Max Goodman, among others, reporting that the Yankees have signed 16-year-old shortstop Manny Cedeño from the Dominican Republic. The deal is reportedly worth $2.5 million, making Cedeño a key addition to the organization. Ranked as the top player in his class and the second-youngest player on the 2025 Top 50 list, Cedeño is already turning heads.

MLB Pipeline describes his potential in glowing terms:

"There is a ton of bat speed to dream on from Cedeno’s balanced and smooth right-handed swing. He does an excellent job of shifting his weight in the box to tap into power that is just beginning to emerge. His plus athleticism aids him in the box as he displays quick hands with almost no stiffness to his approach. If the pop begins to come consistently, Cedeno could be a fast riser through an organization’s ranks."

This signing adds to a growing list of high-profile international prospects in the Yankees’ pipeline. Jasson Domínguez, one of the most talked-about prospects in recent memory, signed for $5.1 million out of the Dominican Republic in 2019. Roderick Arias followed as the Yankees’ top international signing in 2022 with a $4 million deal, and he’s now ranked as the team’s No. 4 prospect. The organization’s commitment to international scouting and development is clearly paying off.

Honestly, I never paid much attention to the Yankees’ international efforts until now, but seeing the talent they’ve brought in is exciting. It’s great to know that even behind the scenes, the team is laying the groundwork for future success. For Yankees fans, that’s something to celebrate.

HOG DODGERS, OTHERS CIRCLING TIM HILL

Tim Hill, who closed out the 2024 season with the New York Yankees, has become a sought-after name late in free agency. Known as "The Groundball Guru," Hill is generating significant interest from teams looking to strengthen their bullpens, and the Yankees appear to be at the forefront. Focused on securing reliable middle relievers and setup arms, the Yankees seem well-positioned for a potential reunion with Hill.

Per Jon Heyman, the Yankees are actively pursuing several bullpen options, with Hill being a standout choice. His 2024 season was a story of redemption. After struggling with a 5.87 ERA during his stint with the White Sox, Hill turned things around dramatically in New York, delivering a sparkling 2.05 ERA and proving himself as a valuable asset. That kind of rebound doesn’t go unnoticed.

Pat Ragazzo of Sports Illustrated has reported “mutual interest” between Hill and the Yankees, though other teams like the Mets, Dodgers, and Diamondbacks are also in the mix for the veteran southpaw. Pete Caldera of The Bergen Record predicts that the Yankees are likely to bring Hill back to the Bronx.

For Hill, returning to the Yankees would make perfect sense. He excelled in pinstripes, played a key role in their postseason success, and could continue to thrive in a bullpen that’s shaping up to be a strength. Plus, with the Yankees making bold moves this offseason, Hill might see this as the perfect opportunity to stick with a contender. 

Another guaranteed deal seems inevitable, and staying with the Yankees could be the best way for Hill to build on his success and chase another championship.

WHAT HAPPENED TO SPONGEBOB?

Remember Oscar Gonzalez from his time with the Indians? Man, I still remember when he burst onto the scene in Cleveland. He was a rookie with so much promise, and it felt like he was destined for big things. When the Yankees picked him up, I was hyped to see what he could do in pinstripes. But what the heck happened to him? I decided to dig into his journey post-Cleveland, and here's what I found.

On December 1, 2023, the Yankees claimed Gonzalez off waivers, and for a moment, it felt like he might get a fresh start. But the excitement didn’t last long. By January 17, 2024, he was designated for assignment after the Yankees made Marcus Stroman’s signing official. A week later, on January 24, Gonzalez cleared waivers and got sent to Triple-A with the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders.

Then came the bad luck. During spring training on March 26, Gonzalez fouled a ball off his face—a freak accident that left him with an orbital fracture. That injury put him on the shelf to start the season, and he didn’t return to the field until April 30. Despite the rough start, he actually put up solid numbers in Triple-A, hitting .294 with eight home runs, 45 RBIs, and seven stolen bases over 78 games. But let’s be real—his time in the Yankees’ system was anything but smooth. By the end of the season, Gonzalez decided to test the waters in free agency, officially parting ways with the Yankees on November 4.

It’s tough not to feel for the guy. I really wanted to see him succeed in New York, but sometimes the cards just don’t fall your way. Here’s hoping he finds better luck in San Diego. Maybe this next chapter will be the one where it all comes together.

Oh, and if you didn’t already know, there’s a reason they called him SpongeBob. Back in 2022, when he was with the Guardians, his walk-up song was the SpongeBob SquarePants theme song. Fans loved it, and it became his signature. Why SpongeBob? Gonzalez said it reminded him that baseball is just a kid’s game. 

How can you not root for someone who carries that kind of perspective?

WE JUST FOUND A POTENTIAL TRADE PARTNER FOR MARCUS STROMAN

The New York Yankees and Colorado Rockies are rumored to be revisiting trade talks that could prove transformative for both teams. At the heart of the proposed deal is infielder Ryan McMahon, whose defensive excellence and reliable power at the plate make him a natural fit for the Yankees’ infield—particularly at third base. With Gleyber Torres departing in free agency, the Yankees need to solidify their infield, and McMahon’s combination of steady offensive production and top-tier glove work could be exactly what they need.

This trade concept, as outlined by Drew VonScio, would see the Yankees acquiring McMahon and international bonus pool money, while the Rockies receive Marcus Stroman and infielder Oswaldo Cabrera. VonScio called it a “win-win,” explaining, “Acquiring McMahon would allow the Yankees to lock down one of their infield positions, presumably third base. Cabrera is unlikely to see much, if any, playing time in 2025. It would be in his best interest to play for a new team this coming season. The Rockies, on the other hand, could bolster their struggling rotation with Stroman.”

The Yankees, however, wouldn’t be the only winners in this trade. For the Rockies, this deal offers significant financial and roster benefits. McMahon, who signed a six-year, $70 million extension in 2022, carries a considerable contract that could limit Colorado’s roster flexibility. Offloading his deal would provide some breathing room for a team in need of it. In exchange, the Rockies would land Marcus Stroman, a veteran starter with a proven track record, giving their rotation a much-needed boost. Additionally, Cabrera—a young, versatile infielder—offers potential as a key piece for their future.

Ultimately, this proposed trade seems to address both teams’ most pressing needs. The Yankees get the infield upgrade they’ve been chasing, while the Rockies add depth to their rotation and improve their financial outlook. With each team benefiting in ways that align with their long-term goals, this trade could be the rare transaction that leaves everyone happy.  

Terrific nugget and a shout out to Pinstripes Nation for this find. You can read their article HERE.