JUSTIN VERLANDER'S STILL GOT IT APPARENTLY

The San Francisco Giants have agreed to a one-year, $15 million deal with starting pitcher Justin Verlander. While it’s not Yankee news, Verlander is one of those players you have to report on when he’s on the move.

A nine-time All-Star and three-time Cy Young winner, Verlander has been one of the most dominant pitchers of his generation, earning accolades with the Detroit Tigers and Houston Astros. He even snagged the AL MVP award in 2011, the same year he won his first Cy Young with the Tigers.

However, Verlander is no longer in his prime. His 2024 season was rough, posting a 5.48 ERA over 90⅓ innings and hitting a career-low in strikeout rate. Despite his determination to pitch until 45, the declining velocity of his fastball has been hard to ignore.

There was some doubt about whether Verlander would continue his illustrious career, especially after last season’s struggles, which included a career-worst ERA in 17 starts for the Astros and two stints on the injured list. Still, it’s good to see him giving it another go. I’m not a Verlander hater—he’s had a fantastic career and deserves respect. Let's see if he has anything left in the tank.

I wish him well.

LUIS ARRAEZ IS A REAL OPTION FOR THE YANKEES

Why? Cause Jeff Passan's on the case.

When Jeff Passan speaks, the baseball world listens. Known for his stellar track record, Passan’s reports are as close to gospel as it gets in MLB circles. So, when ESPN’s Passan dropped the news that the New York Yankees are actively discussing a trade with the San Diego Padres for infielder Luis Arraez, fans and analysts alike took notice. I mean, I did.

Arraez, is one of baseball’s most consistent contact hitters. In 2023, he led the league with an eye-popping .354 batting average. Over his six-year career, Arraez has maintained an impressive .314/.346/.392 slash line. While power isn’t his forte—he’s hit just 28 home runs in his career—his ability to set the table and get on base makes him a prized asset for any team needing a spark at the top of the lineup. Arraez is set to earn around $14 million in 2025 before hitting free agency, making him an attractive, albeit short-term, solution for teams like the Yankees who are in win-now mode.

But wait—before Yankees fans get too excited, there’s Jon Heyman to consider. The ever-contrarian Heyman of the New York Post chimed in, reporting that Arraez "is not seen as a fit" for the Yankees, at least for now. 

Heyman’s takes often feel like a rebellious teenager pushing back against the authority figure that is Passan. If Passan says the sky is blue, you can count on Heyman to argue it's purple. His presence in the rumor mill adds a dash of unpredictability and, let’s face it, some good old-fashioned fun.

Now, shifting gears, there’s another name that’s been tossed around in the Bronx rumor mill: Gavin Lux.  We at Bleeding Yankee Blue mentioned that the Yankees had been pursuing Lux. Read ANOTHER RUMOR. THIS TIME INVOLVING LUX. However, it’s now confirmed that Lux is headed to the Cincinnati Reds, dashing any hopes that he might don pinstripes this season.

So, while Yankees fans wait with bated breath for updates on Luis Arraez, one thing is clear: when Passan reports, you pay attention. And while Heyman might throw a curveball, that’s what makes following MLB rumors so entertaining. 

Will Arraez end up in New York? Stay tuned, because with Passan on the case, it's not like he's gonna report BS.

ALEX VERDUGO MAY HAVE FOUND A HOME

Alex Verdugo's stint with the Yankees showcased him not only as a solid player but also as a fantastic teammate. He burst onto the New York scene with an electrifying start, quickly becoming a fan favorite. By May 7, Verdugo was slashing .275, belting five home runs, and driving in 16 RBIs. His early-season heroics had Yankees fans dreaming of postseason glory.

But baseball, as we know, is a long season, and even the brightest stars can dim. After his red-hot opening, Verdugo hit a wall, enduring a slump that saw his performance drop dramatically. For much of the season, he struggled to find that early magic. It wasn’t until the postseason that Verdugo reemerged, reminding everyone of the talent that first captivated Yankee Stadium. But it was almost too late.

Fast forward to the offseason, and things around Verdugo have been unusually quiet — until now. The Pittsburgh Pirates are reportedly interested in bringing Verdugo on board. Though nothing is set in stone, this potential move could be the perfect match. Pittsburgh, a team looking to inject some spark into their lineup, seems like an ideal landing spot for Verdugo to revive his bat and his mojo.

A change of scenery might be just what the doctor ordered. With the Pirates, Verdugo has the chance to reset, find his groove, and perhaps deliver a monster season. If he can, not only will he elevate the Pirates, but he'll also set himself up for a bigger and better contract down the line. Here’s hoping Verdugo seizes this opportunity and shines brighter than ever.

JIM BOWDEN KNOWS WHERE ROKI SASAKI'S SIGNING

Jim Bowden just couldn’t help himself. 

Bowden went there. Bowden went all in like he’s playing poker with Monopoly money and loving every second of it. While other baseball insiders are stumbling around like they’ve forgotten how to tie their cleats, desperately trying to get the latest scoop on Roki Sasaki, Bowden is out here throwing fastballs of his own. And boy, did he just throw a heater with his latest prediction about Sasaki joining the Yankees. It’s so aggressive, it’s almost like Bowden's trying to sign him himself.

Bowden, the maestro of bold takes over at The Athletic, is out here waving off the Dodgers like they’re yesterday’s news. In Bowden’s world, Sasaki is either headed to the Yankees or the Padres. Why? Well, here’s the gem of logic Bowden blessed us with: "His favorite player growing up was Masahiro Tanaka, which would lead me to guess he was at least somewhat of a Yankees fan. He considers Yu Darvish a godfather-type influence, and the Padres veteran mentored Sasaki during Japan’s championship run in the 2023 World Baseball Classic. Therefore, for no other reason, I’ll predict he signs with either the Yankees or San Diego."

Bowden’s putting his chips on the table, all because Sasaki looked up to Tanaka and has a bromance with Darvish. That’s it. That’s the nugget. Sure, it sounds great in a “baseball is just a big buddy movie” kind of way, but come on, Jim! Signing contracts isn’t exactly like picking your best man for a wedding.

Yes, Tanaka was Sasaki’s childhood hero, clocking in 78 wins during his Yankees days. And Darvish? He had a decent run with the Padres in 2024, with a 7-3 record and a 3.31 ERA, despite only pitching 81.2 innings. But are those the deciding factors here? It’s like saying you picked your college because they have a great mascot.

Bowden’s out here making contract negotiations sound as easy as ordering off a fast-food menu, but we all know it’s a tad more complicated than that. Is it fun to imagine Sasaki signing with the Yankees or Padres? Absolutely. Is it likely? Well, that’s another story. But hey, Bowden’s having a blast, and we’re all just along for the ride. 

Stay tuned—there’s more drama to unfold, and Bowden will surely be right in the thick of it, stirring the pot.

YANKEES LINKED TO KIKE NOW? COME ON, MAN!

Let me state for the record, this is an old connection between the Yankees and Hernandez, but just recently the idea popped up again.  I personally do not see this happening, but we're trying our best to bring you all these great nuggets, theories, guesses.  It's been an incredibly fun off season for the Yankees. Why no spice it up.

During the free-agent frenzy between the 2023 and 2024 seasons, the Yankees made a pitch for utility player Kiké Hernandez, known for his time with the Dodgers and Red Sox. But it was then that  Hernandez really wasn't interested in the Bronx Bombers, choosing instead to head back to sunny Los Angeles. Hernandez likes the Dodgers, likes the West Coast. At the time, it just made sense.

Hernandez, a sixth-round Houston pick from 2009, added another ring to his collection with the 2024 Dodgers' World Series win, complementing his 2020 championship in the pandemic-shortened season. 

Now Estevão Maximo of Pinstripe Alley threw out this idea about Hernandez. That his flexibility and defensive prowess could create a dream outfield of Hernandez, Cody Bellinger, and Aaron Judge, while still rooting for Jasson Domínguez to shine could happen (in his mind). Hernandez, who played on a $4 million, one-year contract last season, could be a bargain addition, especially with his projected lower market value at 33.  Why the idea is great, I just don't see this.

Now, let’s be real—nobody knows if Hernandez actually likes the Yankees. But we do know he likes money, and with old buddy Bellinger now in pinstripes, the idea of joining the Yankees might not seem so far-fetched.

A tip of the cap to the sports writers for keeping this offseason spicy, even if some rumors are just wishful thinking. This one, though? It’s got a hint of reality, especially with the Dodgers' chances of reuniting with Hernandez potentially taking a hit after Hyeseong Kim’s signing. I say hint, though.

MAYBE STROMAN TO THE BLUE JAYS MAKES THE MOST SENSE

 It makes the most sense because Pete Caldera says so.  

There has been widespread speculation about Marcus Stroman's future and whether he might be on the move. However, the bottom line is that it increasingly feels like the Yankees are determined to trade the right-hander.  We had written a previous article on Stroman and the idea of him going to the Cardinals too. Read ARE THE YANKS TRYING TO SHED STROMAN OR ARE US FANS TRYING TO? for more on that. 

Legendary Yankees reporter Pete Caldera, whose insights I’ve trusted and followed for years, has shared a significant prediction that fans and analysts alike should take seriously. After acquiring Max Fried, the Bronx Bombers traded away Nestor Cortes Jr., yet they still face a logjam in their starting rotation at the big-league level.

Currently, New York has six major league starters, alongside a handful of top prospects poised to join the rotation by 2025. The math is simple: someone else has to go, or the Yankees risk losing players for nothing.

Pete Caldera of Northjersey.com recently predicted a specific move involving Stroman that could resolve this overcrowding:

"Seeking to unload Marcus Stroman's $18 million contract for '25, GM Brian Cashman trades the right-hander back to the willing-to-spend Toronto Blue Jays for two lottery pick prospects," Caldera wrote.

A trade like this would make sense for the Yankees. Offloading Stroman’s $18 million contract for the 2025 season would free up significant payroll space, allowing the team to allocate resources elsewhere.

Additionally, moving Stroman could open the door for the Yankees to address other roster needs—most notably, the opportunity to pursue a better option at third base.

As the speculation intensifies, it’s clear that Stroman’s future in pinstripes is uncertain. Whether the Yankees finalize a deal with the Blue Jays or another team, fans will be watching closely as this story develops. I know I will.

Stay tuned.

Read More about Pete Caldera:

NO ONE DOES THE YANKEES BETTER THAN PETE CALDERA

A BIG CARLOS CORREA NUGGET JUST DROPPED IN MY LAP

THAT ANTHONY SANTANDER - YANKEE RUMOR THAT WON'T GO AWAY

It's incredible that the connection this offseason between the New York Yankees and Anthony Santander just won't go away, even though there has been no official mention of him in Yankees' discussions other than from sports writers. It feels like the reports are all guesses or suggestions. The persistent rumors and speculation have been fueled by various reports, keeping fans on edge about the possibility of Santander donning the pinstripes.

Surprisingly, it looks like the Toronto Blue Jays have a deal in place for Santander, and now it's just a waiting game to see if he takes the bait. This potential move by the Blue Jays could significantly help Toronto in the AL East, adding a layer of intrigue to the offseason dynamics. The anticipation is palpable as fans and analysts alike wait to see if Santander will agree to the terms and join the Blue Jays' roster.

Meanwhile, the Boston Red Sox have not yet been truly competing with the Yankees this offseason. However, they did secure Walker Buehler, which was a significant acquisition and a statement of intent. The addition of Buehler strengthens their pitching rotation, but there's more to the Red Sox's offseason moves. There's also talk that Boston has been "connected" to Santander. Yet, the Red Sox aren't alone in this pursuit.

MLB.com's Mark Feinsand has also mentioned the New York Yankees, Detroit Tigers, and Los Angeles Angels as potential suitors for Santander. "Santander is believed to be seeking a five-year deal worth at least $100 million, and while his defense is below-average, his power will be impactful on any lineup he joins," Feinsand said. "The Red Sox, Yankees, Angels, Tigers, and Blue Jays are among the other clubs that have been connected to the 30-year-old Santander, who made his first All-Star team and won a Silver Slugger Award in 2024."

Santander's impressive performance last season has made him one of the most sought-after players on the open market. His power at the plate is undeniable, and teams are eager to add such a potent bat to their lineups. For those interested in more details on the Blue Jays and Santander connection, the article titled CONTRACT OFFER MADE TO ANTHONY SANTANDER on Bleeding Yankee Blue delves into the specifics of the Blue Jays' offer, adding further context to this unfolding saga.

Santander is certainly one of the best options remaining on the open market. He would be a seamless replacement for Sox leftfielder Tyler O'Neill, but the Red Sox do seem to have a logjam in the outfield. 

All of this is quite interesting, but in the end, personally, I don't see the Yankees involved with Santander this offseason at all. Despite the rumors and the constant buzz, the Yankees seem to be focusing their efforts elsewhere. However, in the unpredictable world of baseball, surprises are always around the corner. 

We shall see how this all plays out. Stay tuned.

ANOTHER RUMOR. THIS TIME INVOLVING LUX

The Yankees' offseason is in full swing, and it’s shaping up to be less about actual decisions and more about a never-ending stream of infielder rumors. If you believe every report, the Yankees are on the verge of acquiring just about every infielder known to man. It’s a rumor fest, a clickbait bonanza, and frankly, a little exhausting. Still, I like it.

The Yankees have an infield hole that could be filled at second or third base, depending on where they decide to play Jazz Chisholm Jr. in 2025. Reports suggest Chisholm might move back to his natural second base position following Gleyber Torres’ departure. Sounds simple enough, right? But where’s the fun in simple when you can have a full-blown rumor extravaganza?

Despite having DJ LeMahieu, Oswaldo Cabrera, and Oswald Peraza ready to step in, the media won’t rest until every infielder with a pulse is linked to the Yankees. Enter Gavin Lux, because apparently, no offseason would be complete without his name being thrown into the mix or second base or left field.

Sources claim the Yankees showed interest in Lux weeks ago—because old news is still news when it comes to Yankees rumors. Lux could be a sensible trade option, especially since the Dodgers just signed Hyeseong Kim from the KBO. But who needs sensibility when you can have endless speculation?

Lux, 27, brings two years of cheap team control and a career .252 average with 28 home runs and 155 RBIs. A left-handed bat to balance the lineup? Sure, it makes sense. But will it happen? Who knows! What we do know is that the rumor mill will keep churning, providing plenty of fodder for fans and pundits alike.

It’s a comedy, a circus, and a never-ending source of amusement for anyone following the Yankees when it comes to the sports media. And until something is finalized, we’ll keep refreshing our feeds, waiting for the next big (or small) name to be linked to the Bronx Bombers.

Fun stuff, stay tuned.

JAZZ CHISHOLM IS ABOUT TO MOVE POSITIONS

The New York Yankees are making waves this offseason, and boy, do we have to hand it to them—they’re showing why they’re a cut above the rest. THE YANKEES ARE BACK! 

According to Jack Curry from the YES Network, the Yankees plan to move the electrifying Jazz Chisholm back to his natural position at second base. This decision is nothing short of brilliant and speaks volumes about the team's commitment to optimizing their roster and unleashing their stars to their fullest potential.

Let’s talk about Jazz Chisholm for a moment—because, honestly, how can we not? This guy is pure magic on the field. From his swagger to his jaw-dropping athleticism, Chisholm is a player you just can’t help but root for. And did we mention his talent? After being acquired from the Marlins, Jazz brought a jolt of energy to the Bronx.

Chisholm’s charisma and love for the game are contagious. He’s the kind of player who makes baseball fun—for his teammates, for the fans, and even, begrudgingly, for his opponents. Watching Jazz play feels like watching poetry in motion, with a little bit of fire and flair thrown in for good measure.

While he’s been solid offensively, the Yankees’ decision to move him back to second base is a masterstroke. It’s no secret that Jazz’s defensive stint at third base left a bit to be desired, but hey, not everyone’s a natural hot-corner defender. By returning him to the middle infield, where his quick first step, smooth glove work, and double-play prowess shine, the Yankees are setting him up for success—and making their defense better as a whole.

This move is about more than just positioning; it’s about unlocking Jazz’s full potential and giving him the chance to thrive where he’s most comfortable. With Chisholm anchoring second base, the Yankees’ infield defense is poised to become a thing of beauty. 

Kudos to the Yankees for their savvy adjustments this offseason. I look forward to see what happens at third now.

WOULD THE YANKEES BRING BACK JORDAN MONTGOMERY?

The New York Yankees have a stockpile of starting pitchers, but that hasn’t stopped one MLB analyst from suggesting they should roll the dice and trade for another arm. Yep, we're talking about none other than Jordan Montgomery, the former Yankee who had a less-than-stellar 2024 season with the Arizona Diamondbacks.

Diamondbacks owner Ken Kendrick isn't shy about admitting it was a bust of a signing. He candidly told Arizona Sports, "If anyone wants to blame anyone for Jordan Montgomery being a Diamondback, you’re talking to the guy that should be blamed. Because...I pushed for it. They agreed to it — it wasn’t in our game plan. And looking back, in hindsight, a horrible decision to invest that money in a guy who performed as poorly as he did."

Ouch! That’s some brutal honesty right there. But here's where it gets interesting. Some analysts believe Montgomery's rough patch could make him the perfect "buy-low" candidate. Enter Jeremy Nielsen of Pinstripe Alley, who thinks the Yankees should bring Montgomery back into the fold. Nielsen writes, "If the Yankees traded for Montgomery, he’d escape a toxic situation in Arizona and return to the organization which drafted and developed him. He’d also get a full spring training this time around. Instead of missing camp entirely while holding out for a better deal that never came."

Now, before you say, "But wait, isn’t the Yankees' rotation already packed?" Nielsen is way ahead of you. The rotation lineup for 2025 is looking pretty solid with Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodón, Clarke Schmidt, AL Rookie of the Year Luis Gil, and the new addition of Max Fried. So, where does Montgomery fit in?

Nielsen concedes, "Giving Montgomery an outside shot at best of making the rotation… The most likely scenario in which Montgomery would return to the Bronx is as a break-glass-in-case-of-long-term-injury option. If one of the projected starters goes down for an extended period, bringing Gumby aboard would make more sense."

There you have it! While the Yankees seem set on the mound, bringing Montgomery back could be a strategic move if injuries strike. Who knows, maybe a reunion with the Yankees could reignite the spark in Montgomery's pitching career.

Personally, I'm a Gumby guy, but I just don't see it. 

YANKEES BRING BACK A FAN FAVORITE!

Source: AP

Yup, Bleeding Yankee Blue has already reported the great news about Andrew Velazquez, but I wanted to offer my own flair on this great news!

I love it when the Yankees bring back a guy who made an impression not only on the team but the fan base. Local Bronx hero Andrew Velazquez will be fighting for a roster spot this spring now that the Yankees have brought him back in for round two as a Bomber with a minor league deal on Friday.  

According to NJ.com, "Velazquez has bounced around a lot in his 13 professional seasons, mostly as a minor leaguer. A career .189 hitter with 12 homers, 40 steals and 624 plate appearances, the switch-hitter played 125 of his 275 games in 2022 with the Angels. In 223 games at shortstop, he has a .973 fielding percentage that is higher than the .971 Anthony Volpe compiled playing short for the Yankees the last two seasons as a Gold Glove winner in 2023 and Gold Glove finalist in 2024."

Source: NY Times

With all of the transitions and trades this off season, Velazquez will likely start the season with Scranton-Wilkes Barre, which is perfectly fine. He is an excellent fielder who has filled the shoes of Gleyber Torres when he went to the IL back in 2021. Although a short stop, he certainly earned the title of journeyman and could fill in as needed, adding depth to the Yankee roster.

Source: NY Post

As the first acquisition of the New Year, Velazquez represents promise and brings in the baseball acumen that has been lacking in the club over the last several years. Sometimes you have to go elsewhere, bring what you have learned, evolve as a player and come back home and contribute at a higher level. At least, that is the hope. No, he doesn't have the big batting average, but maybe this year, his hitting will catch up with his stellar defense. And a hometown crowd could certainly be a boost for Velazquez. 

Source: NY Post

The next steps for Velazquez after finishing up a stint in the Puerto Rico Winter Leagues - is heading to Tampa to compete in the 2025 spring training experience, an invite that came with his signing. And from there, who knows. But I will tell you what, it is great to have the Fordham Prep alum back with the Yankee organization. Good luck, Squid, here's hoping you have a great spring. 

ALSO READ: THE RETURN OF VELAZQUEZ!

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

IN THE LATEST SAGA OF THE METS WANTING TO BE THE YANKEES...

Steve Cohen and the New York Mets—baseball’s answer to that one person in high school who keeps trying to reinvent themselves to impress the cool kids, only to trip over their own shoelaces. The latest twist in the Mets' ongoing obsession with the Yankees? A desperate grab at bullpen pieces that might as well come with pinstripes stitched in for good measure.

According to Dan Bartels of the New York Post, the Mets are considering a trio of options for their bullpen, including Yankee fan-favorite Tommy Kahnle. Bartels’ tweet sums it up:

"If the Mets don’t spend big in the bullpen: David Robertson, Chris Martin, or Tommy Kahnle could be a fit, per @NYPost_Mets."

All former Yankees by the way.

Oh, the audacity! Kahnle, who practically breathes Yankee mystique, posted a career-best 2.11 ERA, fanned 46 batters, and boasted an absurd 59.8% ground-ball rate. Naturally, this would make him a tempting target for a team that has spent the better part of the last decade looking like they’ve been cursed by the ghost of Bobby Bonilla’s contract.

But wait—this is the same Mets team that’s already poached Clay Holmes and Frankie Montas, two former Yankees by the way. Did I mention that they were former Yankees? Are we seeing a pattern here? Maybe Steve Cohen isn’t building a team so much as he’s collecting Yankees like they’re Pokémon cards. What’s next? A monument at Citi Field dedicated to "Almost Yankees We Paid Too Much For"?

And then there’s the Juan Soto saga. Former Yankee. Cohen’s near-obsessive pursuit of the slugger reportedly included outlandish offers—rumored to flirt with a near billion-dollar price tag and a luxury suite for Soto’s family. Really? NEARLY A billion dollars? That’s Bezos money, not "we're still paying for Max Scherzer’s arm and Justin Verlander’s ghost" money.

But here’s the kicker: the Yankees and us Yankee fans couldn’t be happier about the Mets taking Soto off the market. With their rivals distracted, the Bronx Bombers were free to bolster their lineup and pitching staff, leaving Mets fans wondering if Cohen is secretly a double agent sent by Hal Steinbrenner.

If Cohen wants to mimic the Yankees, here’s a free tip: it’s not about signing players who used to be good in pinstripes. It’s about cultivating a winning culture, making smart investments, and, oh yeah, not treating your team like a vanity project. Until then, the Mets will remain what they’ve always been: the Yankees' shadow, forever chasing the light.

Good luck with Tommy Kahnle, Mets. Maybe he’ll bring some of that Yankee magic with him. Or maybe he’ll just bring another reminder that Citi Field is where pinstriped dreams go to die.

But I actually hope Kahnle comes back to the Yankees. I liked him there, and I know he loved being a Yankee.

ARE THE YANKS TRYING TO SHED STROMAN OR ARE US FANS TRYING TO?

Picture this: two dudes, Ryan Garcia and Alex Wilson, kicking off the 2025 season with their first "Fireside Yankees" podcast. They're talking shop, spit balling ideas, and throwing out some bold trade scenarios. It’s not gospel, but it’s an interesting thought experiment—one that has Yankees fans tipping their caps.

Here’s the gist: The Yankees might want to move on from 33-year-old Marcus Stroman, who signed a two-year, $37 million deal before the 2024 season. In my opinion, having Stroman on the Yankees didn't work out.  Stroman struggled down the stretch, didn’t make the postseason roster, and now his contract feels more like an albatross than an ace.

The guys at "Fireside Yankees" floated an intriguing possibility: Could the Yankees unload Stroman’s salary on the St. Louis Cardinals in exchange for their 27-year-old super-utility man, Brendan Donovan?

Why Donovan Makes Sense for the Yankees

Donovan, a 2022 National League Gold Glove winner for utility players, has played everywhere except pitcher and catcher. He’s got versatility, a career .280 batting average, and a .364 on-base percentage that could make him a great fit in the Bronx. Over three seasons, Donovan’s also posted a .771 OPS and smacked 30 home runs in 374 games. That kind of reliability and flexibility screams “Cashman player.”

But What About Stroman?

The Cardinals might balk at taking on Stroman’s remaining $18.5 million for 2025 unless the Yankees sweeten the deal. Maybe New York eats some salary, or maybe they throw in a prospect to even things out. Spencer Jones, anyone? Yes, this is actually being talked about.  Though let’s be real—this part feels like a stretch. No way Cashman includes a high-upside outfielder like Jones just to make this happen, right?

So, have the Yankees and Cardinals actually talked about this? No confirmation, at least not yet. But the Yankees’ desire to move on from Stroman feels legit, and Brendan Donovan is exactly the kind of player the Yankees love—versatile, consistent, and affordable.

For now, it’s all speculation, just two guys riffing on a podcast. Still, the idea has legs. If Brian Cashman can get creative, maybe there’s a way to turn Stroman’s sour stint into a fresh start with a player like Donovan.

Until then, we’ll just have to see how this unfolds. Tip your cap to Fireside Yankees for the idea, even if it’s still just a conversation.

Stay tuned.

CONTRACT OFFER MADE TO ANTHONY SANTANDER

Hold onto your hats, Blue Jays fans—this could be a game-changer! The Toronto Blue Jays have officially thrown their hat into the ring for slugger Anthony Santander. According to KPRC’s Ari Alexander, the Jays have made an official contract offer to Santander, signaling their serious intentions. The juicy details on the size and length of the deal? Well, those are still under wraps.

Here’s what we do know: Santander is reportedly seeking a contract that tops four years and $80 million, and if whispers from the rumor mill are true, he might have his eye on something closer to five years and a cool $100 million. That’s the number Jon Heyman of the New York Post floated just last month.

But here’s where it gets even more exciting: Santander’s list of suitors seems to be slimming down. Our New York Yankees, who had previously been in hot pursuit, appear to have cooled their jets. Meanwhile, the Houston Astros have all but bowed out, with insiders reporting they’re “very unlikely” to shell out the kind of cash Santander is looking for.

The stage is set, and all eyes are now on Toronto. Can the Blue Jays lock in this power-hitting outfielder and strengthen their lineup for the seasons ahead? Stay tuned, because this offseason drama is heating up faster than a mid-summer doubleheader!

THE MARTIAN WON'T BE THE ONLY ONE COMPETING FOR AN OUTFIELD SPOT!

The Yankees’ 2025 outfield is shaping up to be an absolute powerhouse, with Aaron Judge commanding right field, Cody Bellinger patrolling center, and Jasson Dominguez penciled in for left. But hold on—spring training promises to bring some fireworks, as two talented prospects, Spencer Jones and Everson Pereira, will battle to steal the left field job from Dominguez.

Let’s start with Jones. At 23 years old, he’s already showing Gold Glove potential. Defensively, he’s sharper than Dominguez, which could tip the scales if "The Martian" doesn’t clean up his act out there this spring.

Leadoff homer for Spencer Jones!

The @Yankees' No. 2 prospect crushes his career-best 17th homer of the season for the Double-A @SOMPatriots. pic.twitter.com/Sn8cSHJA4r

— MLB Pipeline (@MLBPipeline) September 15, 2024

 And Jones isn’t just a glove-first guy—he’s got serious pop in his bat. Smashing 37 homers with a .270 average is no small feat, and it’s got the Yankees' brass dreaming of a future star.

Then there’s Everson Pereira, another 23-year-old who’s got fans buzzing. This guy is all about offensive upside. Back when he was just 20, Pereira sent 20 bombs into orbit in a mere 49 minor league games. Fast forward to 2024, and he’s still raking—10 homers and an .859 OPS in 40 Triple-A games? Not bad.

But let’s not overlook what makes Dominguez so special. His bat is, simply put, magical. A switch-hitter with both power and poise, he’s a nightmare for opposing pitchers. He’s got the tools to hit anywhere in the lineup, and his ability to deliver in the clutch is already legendary in Yankees lore. A 20+ home run rookie season? Oh, that’s just the appetizer for what he’s capable of serving up in my opinion.

The competition is going to be fierce, no doubt about it. But when the dust settles, it’s hard not to see Dominguez holding down left field come Opening Day. Pereira? I believe he might be a tantalizing trade chip for the Yankees to cash in on later. As for Jones, don’t be surprised if he makes his big-league debut this year—he’s got too much talent to keep hidden in the minors for long.

Whatever happens, this battle for left field promises to be one of the highlights of spring training. Buckle up, Yankees fans—it’s going to be a show!

JUST ANOTHER POTENTIAL YANKEE INFIELD TARGET TO CONFUSE YOU!

The New York Yankees. The kings of an offseason so spectacular, it’s like they put on a fireworks show and then left a giant pothole in the middle of the field. 

Sure, they’ve dazzled us with blockbuster moves and trades, but now we’re stuck asking the burning question: who’s going to play second base? Honestly, at this point, we might as well hold open auditions. Bring your glove and a dream.

Let’s start with the obvious: this offseason has been a chef’s kiss. The Yankees made moves so big they’d make your fantasy team blush. And yet, here we are, trying to plug the Gleyber Torres-sized hole in the infield with… Edouard Julien? Really? This guy—who’s basically a strikeout machine with occasional fireworks—is supposed to be our savior? Julien debuted in 2023, hit 16 home runs in 109 games, and probably set some kind of record for swinging at pitches in another zip code. Sure, he’s got pop, but do we want to gamble our infield on a guy who might make fans in the bleachers flinch more than opposing pitchers? He can also make some nice plays though.

And then there’s Luis Arraez. Now here’s a guy who can hit like he’s swatting gnats at a summer barbecue. His defense is, shall we say, "creative," but who cares when the man could probably bat .300 with a toothpick? If the Yankees could somehow get him, it would be like finding out your scratch-off ticket is actually a winner. Alot of chatter, but nothing yet.

Meanwhile, over in Queens, the Mets are… well, what are they doing exactly? After Uncle Steve went full Monopoly Man and dropped nearly a billion dollars on Juan Soto, you’d think they’d keep the momentum going. But no, it’s like they’ve entered hibernation. Maybe they’re busy building a new wing on Citi Field just to house Soto’s contract. Fast forward three years, and we’ll be watching Soto jog around the bases like he’s got a sandwich in one hand and a soda in the other. Hope that works out for you, Uncle Steve. Dummy.

Back to the Bronx thoug. If Julien’s not the answer and Arraez doesn't happen, what are the options? An internal solution, maybe? Oswald Peraza could be the guy, but does anyone else hear the faint sound of a roulette wheel spinning? Whatever happens, one thing’s for sure we can either go out and spend on an infielder, or use what we have internally and I'm ok with it.

Either way, it’s not boring in the Bronx this year, and that’s exactly how I like it.

THE RETURN OF VELAZQUEZ!

Fun news is you remember this guy... Andrew Velazquez is back with the Yanks, kind of! 

Bronx native Andrew Velazquez is reuniting with his hometown team, signing a minor league deal with a Spring Training invite, as reported by Jack Curry of the YES Network. 

It’s a story that practically writes itself—Velazquez, the kid from the Bronx who grew up idolizing the Yankees, back in pinstripes for another shot at glory.

Velazquez captured the hearts of fans in 2021 when he hit his first career home run wearing the Yankee uniform, becoming an instant hometown hero. Now, at 30 years old, he’s returning to where it all began, ready to grind and prove he still belongs. Sure, he’s not walking into Spring Training as the starter, but let’s not count him out just yet.

After spending two years with the Angels and most recently playing in Triple-A for the Braves, Velazquez is back in hopes to bolster the Yankees’ infield depth. And with Caleb Durbin off to the Brewers, the timing couldn’t be better. Velazquez has the versatility and heart you want in a player fighting for a spot.

Is this a long shot? Maybe. But don’t forget, this guy has already lived the dream once. Could lightning strike twice? Could we see him sprinting across Yankee Stadium, making jaw-dropping plays, and bringing the house down again?

Yankee fans, buckle up. Andrew Velazquez is back, and the Cinderella story might just have another chapter. 

Let’s go! 

MIKE FORD'S STILL GOT IT

The Minnesota Twins have handed Mike Ford a fresh chance, signing him to a minor league deal with an invite to big league Spring Training. It’s like finding that old band tee you loved in high school—a little worn, but still cool enough to rock.

Back in 2019, Ford swaggered onto the big league stage with the Yankees and became an instant Bronx legend, kind of. Fans liked him, he had his moments and it worked for a bit. He wasn’t just hitting home runs he was doing the little things. In 50 games, he clobbered 12 homers and put up numbers that made seasoned sluggers do a double-take. Yankee Stadium’s short porch might as well have had his name on it.

For a hot minute, Mike Ford was everything Yankees fans didn’t know they needed. He was fun. He was the kind of guy who made you believe anything was possible—at least until the baseball gods decided to remind everyone that this game is as humbling as it gets. By 2020 and 2021, Ford’s bat cooled off, and the Yankees eventually sent him packing to the Rays for cash. Yeah, not exactly a ticker-tape parade, but hey, that’s baseball.

Fast forward to now, and Ford is still grinding, still chasing that big league dream. And honestly? Good for him. Baseball needs guys like Mike Ford—the underdogs, the surprises, the guys who can come out of nowhere and drop a clutch bomb just when you think you’ve seen it all.

So, here’s to Mike Ford. His time in the Bronx was a riot, and it’s awesome to see him still out there taking his hacks. Who knows? Maybe his Twins chapter will have its own wild moments. Whatever happens, one thing’s for sure: the ride’s been worth it, every swing of the way.

--Alvin Izzo
BYB Yankee History Contributor

MY SPECULATION IS ALEX BREGMAN IS TAINTED

Speculation continues in my world. It's true, when it comes to Alex Bregman’s free agency, many are wondering if the delay in his signing stems from his pursuit of a lucrative payday and lingering questions about his reputation of cheating. 

Bregman, the face of the Houston Astros' 2017 cheating scandal with Jose Altuve, became synonymous with the team’s infamous sign-stealing scheme when he delivered awkward, seemingly insincere apologies during the fallout. 

Now, at 30 years old and seeking a new, huge contract, some believe his association with the scandal is playing a significant role in the hesitation from teams to meet his likely lofty price tag. This is watercooler talk and believe me, I firmly believe this is why there is such a hold up. Reputation is a big thing.

Bregman remains a solid player with a consistent track record of high production during his nine-year career—all spent with the Astros. However, he’s not quite a superstar, and his performance has seen some decline in recent years. Represented by Scott Boras, known for pushing clients toward massive deals, Bregman is undoubtedly aiming high. But given his recent down year and the baggage of his past, Boras may find this negotiation particularly challenging in my opinion.

Rumors have linked several teams to Bregman, with the Chicago Cubs emerging as a potential landing spot. So do the Tigers. Meanwhile, the Yankees, once thought to be contenders for his services, now seem more focused on pursuing Carlos Correa, (Read A BIG CARLOS CORREA NUGGET JUST DROPPED IN MY LAP) who could potentially shift to third base if the fit works. Other teams reportedly in the mix include the Blue Jays, Tigers, and Red Sox.

For Bregman, the issue may not just be the financial figure he’s targeting but also the broader perception of his career post-2017. His association with the scandal casts a long shadow, and teams may be wary of investing heavily in a player carrying such baggage. If I'm Bregman I want to stay in Houston where I'm safe. But the Astros have yet to make a strong push to retain him, adding another layer of uncertainty.

In my view, Bregman’s best chance for stability lies in staying with the Astros, where his history and familiarity with the organization could work in his favor. For now, though, it appears he’s waiting by the phone—and the calls he’s hoping for may not be coming anytime soon.

My opinion of course and I could totally be wrong. But to me, reputation, character and integrity are important.  

SASAKI SWEEPSTAKE TEAMS GETTING MORE EXCLUSIVE...

Kind of.

Jim Bowden of The Athletic claims the Yankees are one of the main teams in the hunt for Rōki Sasaki, along with the Dodgers, Padres, Cubs, Rangers, Mets, and maybe the Giants. Classic Bowden move—throw half the league at the wall and see what sticks. God love him.  Don’t get me wrong, Jim’s a good baseball guy, but let’s not confuse him with Nostradamus. Does he really know where Sasaki’s headed? Doubtful. But hey, the Yankees are in the conversation, and that’s good enough for now. In reality, you didn't need me to tell you that, just Google it.

Look, Rōki Sasaki isn’t your run-of-the-mill international signing. He’s a once-in-a-generation talent—a flamethrower who could make your team a contender or your rivals weep. Yankees fans are clinging to the fact that Sasaki grew up idolizing Masahiro Tanaka. At least I am and I know it means nothing. I mean, does that really mean Tanaka’s sliding into Sasaki’s DMs with pep talks? Maybe. Or maybe Tanaka’s just living his life while I wildly speculate.

The Yankees have stiff competition, though, and let’s be honest: this isn’t 2009 when the team could just back up a Brinks truck.  Sasaki’s tied up in international bonus pool rules and Joel Wolfe, Sasaki’s agent, says market size doesn’t matter, so there goes that Bronx swagger edge and even the Mets.

But is the Big Apple too big? Wolfe recently stirred the pot, telling SportsNet New York, “A small- or mid-market team might be more beneficial for [Sasaki], as a way to start his MLB career in a softer environment.” Okay, Joel, we see you. Basically, Sasaki might not want to deal with New York’s tabloid circus and high-pressure fans right out of the gate. Fair enough—but are we really supposed to believe he wants to start his career in, like, Milwaukee?

Even if Sasaki does have a soft spot for Tanaka and pinstripes, the Yankees are up against some heavy hitters. The Dodgers, Padres, and Mets have plenty of appeal to make things interesting. But let’s be real: until Sasaki’s holding up a jersey at a press conference, this is all just a fever dream and Jim Bowden knows it... Damn you Jim!

So, Yankees fans, keep your cool. It’s fun to imagine Sasaki in pinstripes, but don’t let Jim Bowden’s musings have you picking out parade routes just yet. And Jim? Thanks for the speculation—it’s great for the clicks.  

Love ya!