ALONSO TO THE RED SOX?

Well, Pete Alonso has officially packed up his bats and walked out of Queens — and honestly, who can blame him? After being treated like an afterthought by the Mets last offseason, the Polar Bear decided to bet on himself, and spoiler alert: he won. He’s declining a $24 million player option because apparently, hitting .272 with 38 home runs and leading the National League with 41 doubles earns you the right to shop around. Go figure. Also, good for him.

According to MLB Trade Rumors, Alonso sits just behind Kyle Schwarber and Japanese slugger Munetaka Murakami as one of the top power bats on the market — which is basically a polite way of saying “someone’s about to overpay him, and it won’t be Steve Cohen.” Alonso is reportedly looking for a seven-year deal this time, because after the Mets’ lukewarm courting last winter, he’s not just dating for fun anymore. He wants commitment — and maybe a front office that actually calls him back.

Bleacher Report’s Tim Kelly tossed out a spicy prediction that the Red Sox could swoop in, especially with uncertainty surrounding Triston Casas’ knee. Kelly suggests Boston might “replace Alex Bregman with Pete Alonso,” which is interesting. But hey, the idea of Alonso mashing bombs over the Green Monster is fun to imagine for Red Sox fans — especially if it means sticking it to the Mets from a few hundred miles north.

Now, I’m not exactly in the Pete Alonso Fan Club, but even I can admit the guy deserved better from the Mets. The problem last offseason wasn’t just the Mets’ indecision — it was Scott Boras. The super-agent nearly froze Alonso out of a long-term deal by overplaying his hand, dragging out negotiations so long that even Steve Cohen admitted the talks were more exhausting than dealing with Juan Soto. And when Steve Cohen calls something exhausting, you know it’s bad.

In the end, Alonso did what smart players do — he's choosing peace, freedom, and the open market. Maybe he’ll end up in Boston, maybe somewhere else. But one thing’s for sure: wherever he lands, he’ll get paid, he’ll hit dingers, and he won’t have to pretend he enjoys answering questions about the Mets’ “future direction.”

Stay tuned — the Polar Bear’s about to find a new cave, and this time, he’s charging admission.

ANOTHER TORPEDO BAT & PORTNOY WHINES TOO MUCH

The weekend showdown with the Yankees and the Torpedo Bats was something else. But the most absurd complaint? That honor goes to none other than Dave Portnoy—who, at this point, is just a guy with too much time, too much money, and no idea what to do with either. His entire existence seems to revolve around whining, making his ridiculous "emergency press conference" videos, and, oh yeah, spreading nonsense.

Emergency Press Conference - The Yankees Torpedo bat needs to be banned before it ruins baseball @stoolpresidente pic.twitter.com/04w5Zz1s50

— Barstool Sports (@barstoolsports) March 30, 2025

Case in point: the man actually claimed Aaron Judge was swinging a Torpedo Bat. Judge, who literally said, "No, I’m not," and, by the way, anyone with functioning eyes could just watch his at-bats and see—no Torpedo Bat. But sure, Dave, let’s run with that. Journalism at its finest. Fake news, bro. Go touch grass.

The best part was when Chisholm wrote back to him on Twitter saying “This is a high school baller talking.” Gotta love that, and Jazz is right.

Now, for the real story. The Yankees aren’t the only ones trying out these new bats, and the latest advocate comes from the Minnesota Twins: catcher Ryan Jeffers. His bat? A fancy new "bowling pin" style version of the Torpedo Bat. And he made a killer point while talking to ESPN’s Jeff Passan:

"There's new pitches getting invented every year. We're just swinging the same broomstick we've swung for the last 100 years."

He’s got a point. Pitchers keep evolving—why shouldn’t hitters? MLB’s rulebook is clear: as long as it’s a single piece of solid wood and within the size limits, it’s fair game. These bats aren’t illegal; they’re just optimized. And isn’t that what baseball is all about? The never-ending chess match between pitcher and batter?

Meanwhile, Portnoy should maybe shift his energy elsewhere if he wants to talk about cheating. Like, say, figuring out why the Red Sox just signed Bregman—a certified cheater—while their actual franchise guy, Rafael Devers, is getting squeezed out. Smart move, Boston. Real smart.

Anyway, back to baseball that actually matters—shoutout to Ryan Jeffers for backing innovation. The game is evolving, and I, for one, am here for it. 

THE TRADE IDEA THAT WILL MAKE EVERYONES HEAD EXPLODE

Alright, let’s get this out of the way—Rafael Devers in pinstripes sounds about as likely as Fenway Park serving up Nathan’s hot dogs. But, history tells us that the Yankees and Red Sox have done business before, so should we completely rule out the possibility? New York Yankees on SI has an idea.

According to Sean McAdam of MassLive, Devers reportedly considered asking for a trade before ultimately telling the media he’d be open to switching positions if Boston brought in former Astros third baseman (and noted trash-can enthusiast) Alex Bregman. That’s right—there’s friction in Beantown, and honestly, Devers is the better player. Bregman carries both an aging bat and the baggage of, well, that whole thing.

Now, let’s talk logistics. Devers doesn’t have a no-trade clause, meaning the Red Sox could ship him off to the highest bidder without losing any sleep over his preferences. If Boston wants to move on, they’re well within their rights to do so—especially if relations have turned sour.

But what could the Yankees even offer? The package would have to be massive. Think Jasson Domínguez, Spencer Jones, Will Warren—heck, maybe they toss in Marcus Stroman just for fun. If that happens, the power dynamic could shift instantly. Suddenly, Boston would have a nice collection of future stars, and the Yankees… well, they’d have Devers.

Would it be worth it? Well, Devers hit .272 in 2024 with 143 hits, 28 home runs, 83 RBIs, and 87 runs in 138 games. That’s a massive upgrade at third base over DJ LeMahieu (who seems permanently banged up) and the Oswald/Oswaldo experiment.

Realistically, this is all just a pipe dream. No one actually expects it to happen… but then again, baseball has a way of surprising us. Stay tuned.

TAINTED BREGMAN HARDLY A GAME CHANGING PLAYER

Well, well, well, the Boston Red Sox have officially lost their minds. Again. In case you somehow missed it while avoiding all things dumb and desperate, Alex Bregman has somehow landed himself a three-year, $120 million contract with the Sox. That’s right—Boston, a team that has missed the playoffs for three straight years, decided that the best way to turn things around was to throw an obscene amount of cash at a guy no one else wanted. Brilliant.

Let’s break this down, shall we? Bregman was the last big-name free agent left standing, and not because he was some hidden gem that teams just forgot about. No, no, no—he was sitting on the shelf collecting dust because Scott Boras, baseball’s most insufferable agent, spent the entire offseason making everything about himself and demanding an absurd contract that no one in their right mind was willing to pay. But then the Red Sox, in their infinite wisdom, decided, “Hey, let’s be the suckers who cave in!”

Seriously, Bregman was supposedly getting offers in the six-year, $170 million range, but no team wanted to touch that nonsense. Wonder why? Could it be because he’s still tainted from that little cheating scandal that helped define his career? You bet. Read HERE. Could it be because he’s not exactly the superstar he once was? Absolutely. But Boston, ever the beacon of wise decision-making, just had to overpay for a guy that the rest of the league had already passed on.

And let’s not ignore the “brilliant” structure of this deal. Bregman has opt-outs after the first and second years, making this a glorified pillow contract. If he actually plays well, he can bounce early and cash in elsewhere. If he flops? Well, congratulations, Red Sox, you just signed up for a massively overpriced headache.

Oh, and according to ESPN’s Jeff Passan, Bregman will be playing second base for Boston. Because, sure, that’s what they need—an aging, overpriced infielder instead of building a team with actual depth and longevity. Never mind that they have top prospect Kristian Campbell waiting in the wings. Who cares about the future when you can recklessly throw money at someone whose best years are probably behind him?

So, Red Sox fans, enjoy your new “star.” Enjoy watching your front office overcompensate for years of mismanagement by throwing absurd amounts of money at a guy no one else wanted. And most of all, enjoy another season of being overhyped, overpaid, and ultimately irrelevant. Because this move? It sure as hell isn’t bringing a championship back to Boston. 

Maybe get the garbage cans out too. Try that.

IT'S TIME TO POUR COLD WATER ON THE BREGMAN-YANKEES CONNECTION!

America's favorite pastime is baseball, and it's mine too. Exposing baseball cheaters is another and pouring cold water on cheating free agents tied to the Yankees is another. If the rumors I am reading are true....I might finally get to do the last one.

Ever since the Yankees lost the Juan Soto sweepstakes, they have been tied to Alex Bregman. The Yankees are tied to every free agent so that shouldn't be a surprise at all, but in the very small circle of free agents I don't want the Yankees tied to Bregman is at the top of that list. So, I gagged thinking about it. Now I may not have to, and I rejoice in that thought.

According to multiple sources like SI.com HERE the Yankees are not in on Bregman "right now." Jon Heyman explained "I'm not seeing Mets or Yankees for Bregman at this point," Heyman said. "Obviously he's a great player, he'd help anybody... Yankees, I don't think they're doing anything more big. They've done plenty big. I think they're one of the winter winners to this point," Heyman continued. "So I'm not seeing that for Bregman."

That comes after Jack Curry said the Yankees weren't in on Bregman the week of Christmas on an episode of Yankees Hot Stove. So, two different "insiders" giving us rumors a month apart giving us the scoop. Could they be wrong? Sure, but honestly the Yankees have done a lot (but maybe not done) so far. We've seen how crazy the market is with some of these players (Soto!) so maybe the Yankees are waiting to see if the market cools off.

And that would make sense. Honestly, I see the Yankees getting a left-handed reliever and PLEASE let that be Tim Hill! That's the guy I want coming back. As risky as I think this is, I also see the Yankees giving DJ LeMahieu another shot as a full time third baseman. If they do, I hope it works but that is a gamble that makes me uneasy.

At any rate, the Detroit Tigers and Red Sox have been in extensive talks with Bregman. Talks with the Tigers have "stalled" and the Red Sox are said to be close to an agreement. If the Red Sox sign him, that's a perfect match. A stinky team for the dirtiest of players. No matter if Bregman winds up in Boston or not that doesn't make me fear them more.

So, while nothing is official and can still change even though the Yankees and Bregman are a match on paper, there seems to be no connection. Thank goodness. I'll be happy to pour cold water on this rumor when it's all said and done.

--Jeana Bellezza-Ochoa

BYB Senior Managing Editor

Twitter: @nyprincessj

NEW TEAM IN ON ALEX BREGMAN. YANKEES STILL IN THE MIX

Baseball's hot stove season is something, isn't it? The rumors fly faster than a Giancarlo Stanton home run, and every team thinks they’ve got the inside track on the next big thing.

The latest chatter has centered around Alex Bregman who could soon be donning new pinstripes, but which ones? While the Cubs have been making noise and the Yanks are still "in" so to speak, the Red Sox seem to have snuck in like that one friend who always shows up late to the party.

Sure, the Yankees wouldn’t mind having Bregman. He’s like the shiny new toy that every kid on the block wants for Christmas. He could slide in at third base, giving their infield a nice little facelift, with Jazz Chisholm Jr. happily moving over to second. It’s the kind of infield alignment that would make even the most stoic Yankees fan grin.

But do the Yankees need Bregman and do Yankee fans want Bregman? Not really. They’re like that friend who has a perfectly good car but wouldn’t mind upgrading to the latest model, just because. The Yankees are already stacked, and while Bregman would be a nice-to-have, it’s not like they’re going to fall apart without him. Our team is great right now.

On the other hand, the Red Sox? They need a lot. According to Rowan Kavner of FOX Sports, Bregman is a perfect fit for the Sox. “Just like last year when everyone thought Juan Soto would thrive with Yankee Stadium’s short porch, Bregman and the Green Monster seem like a perfect match,” Kavner writes. "Boston’s lefty-heavy lineup could benefit from a powerful right-handed hitter, and Bregman’s ability to launch home runs over the Crawford Boxes should translate well at Fenway Park."

Now, let’s talk about the Cubs for a moment. Bruce Levine of Audacy reports that the Cubs have chatted with Bregman about a short-term deal. Imagine the Cubs finally landing Bregman—it would be like finding out the tooth fairy left you a hundred-dollar bill under your pillow. It might actually bring some sparkle back to Wrigley Field.

But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. The Yankees are still lurking in the background, keeping an eye on things. There’s talk they might trade Marcus Stroman, shedding his $18 million salary, which could open up room for Bregman. Of course, this is all speculation at this point. If you’re a Yankees fan, you’ve probably heard it all before: “Player X is coming to the Bronx, it’s happening!” only for Player X to end up anywhere but.

If we’re being realistic, though, the Yankees would survive without Bregman, my opinion. I really do not want the guy. The Red Sox, however, they could use this guy.

So, where will Bregman land? If I had to put my money on it, I’d say it’s a toss-up between the Cubs and the Red Sox and I am rooting for the Cubs. But hey, this is baseball, and stranger things have happened.

Stay tuned.

ALEX BREGMAN IS STILL WITHOUT A HOME, GUYS

 Alex Bregman still hanging around on the free-agent market is like a piñata that just won’t crack open, no matter how hard you swing. But, hey, the longer he’s out there, the better it is for the Yankees—and let’s be real, Yankee fans are no Bregman groupies. Yet, imagining him in pinstripes for a few years (and not a day over) could be a win-win for everyone involved. Here's why.

Bregman reportedly gave a big ol’ "No, thanks" to a six-year, $156 million offer from the Astros earlier this offseason. The Astros have moved on, but Bregman? He’s still floating around like a helium balloon no one tied down. The Red Sox, Tigers, and Blue Jays are sniffing around, but nobody’s biting just yet because, let's face it, beating that 6/$156M deal seems as likely as a snowstorm in July.

Now, the Yankees weren’t going to blow their wallets open for a long-term deal that would make Bregman the new Bronx Emperor. But, as he flutters around the market, the Yankees could sneak in with a cheeky little short-term offer, just like Scott Boras did with his clients last winter.

According to Cubs insider Bruce Levine, Boras, Bregman, and the Cubs have been whispering sweet nothings about short-term deals with opt-outs. So, why shouldn't the Yankees crash that party? Imagine this: The Yankees offload Marcus Stroman's cash (or most of it), then wave a three-year deal at Bregman with that sweet $26 million deal, plus an opt-out after Year 1. Voila! It's like getting your cake and eating it too.

Sure, the Cubs are trying to woo Bregman, but Yankee fans might just be thinking, "We could do that." A top infielder at a bargain price for just a year or two? It’s like finding a designer suit on clearance—why wouldn’t you grab it? Yanks Go Yard is all aboard the Bregman train, and honestly, it’s starting to make a lot of sense.

In the end, Bregman to the Yankees on a short-term deal could be the drama-filled, back-page headline New York never knew it needed. Yankee fans may not love him now, but give him a year in the Bronx, and who knows? Maybe, just maybe, he’ll turn from villain to hero, at least for a little while.

Nah, we'd still hate him.

TRADE FOR JACE JUNG? IT ACTUALLY MAKES SENSE

Ah, the New York Yankees—a team with a third-base situation that is getting more play than I ever did after my senior prom. 

With big-name stars like Alex Bregman and Nolan Arenado requiring big money, it's clear the Yankees aren't ready to break the bank. So, what's Cashman to do? Hit the trade market and hope for a little bit of that old Bronx magic.

Enter Jace Jung, the Detroit Tigers' prized prospect and potential cornerstone for their third base. The Tigers are pretty much in a "hands-off" mode with Jung, envisioning him anchoring their hot corner for years to come. But hey, why let a little thing like "zero interest in trading him" stop us from dreaming?

The Tigers do need starting pitching, though. So, what if Brian Cashman dangled Clarke Schmidt in front of them, like a cat toy for a kitten? It might be enough to get Detroit’s front office curious. Jung would bring stability to the Yankees at third base as well as a youth movement, fitting Cashman's current obsession with cost control.

But let's not get carried away. This is the baseball rumor world, where every day is a guessing game, and most of the time, everyone's out there just throwing darts in the dark. Maybe the Tigers will bite; maybe they'll laugh us out of the room. Either way, it's fun to imagine, right?

Of course, Jung isn't the only young third baseman on the market. There are other promising players the Yankees could chase if they decide to part with someone like Schmidt. But if the Yanks don't want to stay internal, what a fun option.

Stay tuned. I have ever loved the rumor world as much as I have this offseason. No doubt about it.

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.  

GLEYBER TORRES: THE BEARDED ERA

Ladies and gentlemen, Gleyber Torres has entered his bearded era, and honestly, it’s a vibe. Now that he’s out of the Yankees’ clean-shaven clutches, Torres is rocking an impressive beard that screams, “I’m free, and I’m fabulous.” Say goodbye to the baby-faced Bronx Bomber and hello to the rugged, reinvented Tiger.

Here he is now:

With the facial rule gone, Greyber Torres can now rock an impressive beard. pic.twitter.com/OnTXyLZnqB

— Rogelio Castillo (@rogcastbaseball) December 28, 2024

Well, well, well.

Let’s rewind to when Gleyber first burst onto the Yankees’ scene. He was the golden boy, the prodigy, the guy you just knew would deliver in the clutch. And boy, did he deliver—especially in the postseason, where he had an uncanny ability to get on base like it was his job (because, well, it was).

But fast forward to this offseason, and it felt like the Gleyber love was fading. Was I the only one pounding the table and yelling, “KEEP THIS MAN”? Apparently so. The Yankees had other plans, and Gleyber’s grand farewell included a Game 4 home run in the World Series—a mic drop moment for the only MLB team he’d ever known.

Now, he’s off to Detroit, where the beard is thriving, and so is the vibe. Speaking to Detroit media, Torres said, “I feel like I have to play where somebody wants to give the best for me, and I just want to be available to do the best for the team.” Translation: “If you’re cool with the beard, I’m cool with you.”

Apparently, Gio Urshela hyped Detroit to him like a real estate agent trying to sell a fixer-upper: “Great history, lovely parks, you’ll love it here!” Torres is slotted to stick at second base, with Colt Keith sliding to first and Alex Bregman potentially joining the Tigers’ infield party.

But let’s get to the real star of this story—the beard. For decades, the Yankees have been facial-hair police, enforcing a strict “no beards allowed” policy like it was their primary mission in life. Credit George Steinbrenner for starting this nonsense back in 1976, and somehow, the rule stuck for nearly half a century. Players literally had to shave their identities at the door.

Now in Detroit, Gleyber is letting it grow, and honestly, he’s glowing. Will this newfound follicular freedom help him play better? Maybe! Will it make him look cooler while doing it? Absolutely.

Whatever the case, I’m rooting for Torres to thrive, beard and all. May he hit bombs, turn double plays, and prove that a little facial hair can go a long way in redefining a career. 

Go get ’em, Gleyber—you’ve earned it!

WHY SIGN ALEX BREGMAN WHEN WE DON'T REALLY NEED HIM?

The New York Yankees are making calculated moves this offseason, and while Alex Bregman is undoubtedly a talented player, there are strong reasons to support the team's hesitation to pursue him. As Jon Heyman of the New York Post reported, Yankees insiders admire Bregman but question whether Yankee Stadium is the best fit for his skillset. Instead, they appear to be banking on their existing roster depth and potential for internal improvement, or so it seems.

With DJ LeMahieu, Oswaldo Cabrera, and Oswald Peraza already viable options at second and third base, the Yankees have solid fallback plans that don’t involve a massive financial commitment. Jazz Chisholm Jr., who could complement these players by filling the other infield spot, adds further flexibility to the mix. The team’s confidence in LeMahieu regaining full health and returning to form is also a key factor in their decision-making. Believe it or not, DJ could have just had a bad year. He could bounce back!

Acquiring Bregman would come with significant downsides. The Yankees would have to offer him a long-term contract, locking up considerable financial resources for years to come. Additionally, signing him would cost the team valuable draft compensation, as Bregman declined the qualifying offer from the Houston Astros.

Given the Yankees' strategic offseason moves so far, spending big on a player like Bregman may not align with their vision for the future and fans would not like it either, let's be honest. Why take on such a steep cost when the team already has reliable internal options ready to step up? Bregman’s talent is undeniable, but the Yankees’ current approach emphasizes resourcefulness and prudence—qualities that could ultimately yield greater long-term success.

By passing on Bregman, the Yankees are showing confidence in their roster and staying committed to a smarter, more sustainable strategy. That’s a win for the team, both now and in the seasons ahead.

That's my take.

CORREA OVER VOLPE? PEOPLE ARE ACTUALLY TALKING ABOUT THIS

So, word on the street is the Minnesota Twins might be willing to part ways with Carlos Correa, their big fish. And wouldn’t you know it, the folks over at Fireside Yankees podcast are ready to throw a parade to welcome Correa to the Bronx. I kid, I kid.

Their hot take? "Should the Yankees try to swing a trade for star infielder Carlos Correa this offseason? The financial hurdle and prospect haul could be a ton, but this move would cement the Yankees as legitimate World Series contenders," they chirped on Twitter.

Look, Fireside Yankees, I admire the audacity. It takes a certain kind of courage to suggest the Yankees should work out a deal and pay top dollar for a guy who was basically the Astros’ poster boy for the Great Garbage Can Caper of 2017. But in my opinion, let’s pump the brakes.

First of all, we already have a shortstop. His name is Anthony Volpe, and he’s not just any shortstop—he’s a homegrown, Gold Glove-winning rookie who fans like. You don’t bench that guy, you grow him. You don’t move him to second base. And you definitely don’t bring in a guy like Correa, who’d be carrying more baggage into the clubhouse than Judge carries runners across home plate. Obviously people have their opinions, and I have mine.

Correa isn’t just expensive—he’s four years, $200 million expensive. That’s the kind of money you drop on an MVP bat, not a guy who might spend his first month in pinstripes dodging boos louder than the subway at rush hour. Sure, he’s talented, but we’ve got bigger fish to fry.

Oh, and let’s not forget Cody Bellinger. Our newest addition is a man on a mission—and that mission is to keep the Astros as far away from his team as possible. Bellinger’s dislike for Houston is so well-documented, he could trademark it, read  REMEMBERING WHEN CODY BELLINGER WENT HARD ON THE ASTROS! You think he’d be thrilled to see Correa waltz into the clubhouse like nothing happened? Hard pass. We’re not just building a lineup here; we’re building chemistry.

But the Correa dream doesn’t end with Fireside Yankees. FanSided’s Chris Landers also threw him into a hypothetical “dream lineup” for the Yankees, and I have questions. Did we run out of other players to fantasize about? Was everyone else unavailable? Because this feels like suggesting pineapple on a pizza—it’s bold, but it’s also unnecessary, and it’s probably going to start a fight.

Landers even acknowledged the “collective groan” Yankees fans would unleash if Correa became a Yankee. Newsflash: if you know the fans would hate it, maybe don’t do it. We’re already dealing with enough BS.

So, here’s the deal: the Yankees don’t need Correa. We have Anthony Volpe. That’s the story Yankees fans love. That’s what we want to root for.

If the Twins are looking to shed payroll, great for them. Maybe they can send Correa somewhere where his baggage won’t take up a whole locker room. Thanks, but no thanks. Fireside Yankees, we love your passion but maybe let’s aim that energy at something we actually need—like figuring out how to win a championship without trolling the Astros’ garage sale.

YANKS OUT ON ARENADO & BREGMAN?

Well, Yankees fans, it looks like Nolan Arenado isn’t coming to the Bronx anytime soon. The Cardinals have reportedly said “thanks, but no thanks” to a trade offer that would have sent the star third baseman to New York in exchange for righty Marcus Stroman. According to MLB.com, Arenado might have been open to waiving his no-trade clause if the Yankees added Paul Goldschmidt to their lineup—spoiler alert: they did just that on Saturday. But even with Goldy on board, the Yankees are officially out on Arenado.

And if you thought Alex Bregman might be plan B, think again. Jack Curry of YES Network shut down that dream, stating bluntly, “Bregman is not a fit because of Yankee Stadium dimensions," this comes from a Reddit post.  Translation: his power numbers wouldn’t play well in New York. Plus, let’s not forget the spicy bad blood between the Yankees and Astros over that infamous sign-stealing scandal. Bleacher Report’s Joel Reuter summed it up perfectly: “The Yankees were always a long shot for Bregman.”

So, where does that leave the Bombers? Still hunting for a new hot corner star. Arenado may still be one of baseball’s best, but his 2024 numbers weren’t exactly MVP-caliber: a .266 average, 16 home runs, and 71 RBIs. Defensively, though? The man is still a vacuum cleaner at third base. Meanwhile, speculation is Bregman’s off the table because of the awkward Astros-Yankees tension.

Remember, Cody Bellinger, the newest member of the pinstriped family and a certified Astros hater. Bellinger’s beef with Houston adds a little extra spice to the mix, and who doesn’t love that?

The Yankees’ quest for a third baseman continues, but one thing’s for sure: this offseason isn’t short on plot twists. 

Stay tuned—because in the Bronx, the soap opera never ends.

REMEMBERING WHEN CODY BELLINGER WENT HARD ON THE ASTROS!

Yankee fans, rejoice! Not only is Cody Bellinger officially donning the pinstripes, but he’s also bringing the kind of fiery honesty and no-nonsense attitude that New York loves. We love the fighters here! 

Empire Sports Media deserves a standing ovation for unearthing this gem of a video clip from 2020, where Bellinger unapologetically called out the Houston Astros for their notorious cheating scandal. Let’s take a moment to bask in the glory of a guy who speaks his mind and hates the Astros as much as we do.

Back in 2020, Bellinger—then with the Los Angeles Dodgers—didn't mince words when asked about the Astros' feeble attempts at apology and MLB's handling of the scandal. Speaking before the Dodgers’ pitchers and catchers held their first official workout, Bellinger tore into Astros owner Jim Crane, calling his apology “weak.” He extended that label to MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred for granting immunity to the players involved.

“Those guys were cheating for three years,” Bellinger said, with the kind of passion that New Yorkers will eat up like a slice of Ray’s Pizza. “I think what people don’t realize is [Jose] Altuve stole an MVP from [Aaron] Judge in 2017. Everyone knows they stole the ring from us. But it’s over.”

Of course, Bellinger couldn’t resist bringing up one of the most baffling moments in baseball history: Altuve’s suspicious walk-off home run against Aroldis Chapman during the 2019 ALCS. “I don’t know what human hits a walk-off home run to send your team to the World Series and, one, has the thought to say, ‘Don’t rip my jersey off,’ but, two, goes into the tunnel, changes their shirt, and then comes out and does their interview. That makes no sense to me,” he said, leaving no stone unturned.

This clip is pure gold, a reminder that Bellinger has always been one of baseball’s real ones. And now he’s ours, Yankee fans. The man is fearless. Bold statements we need in the Bronx.

With all of this in mind, let’s talk about the offseason. If anyone out there seriously thinks the Yankees should go after Alex Bregman, let’s pause for a reality check. Bregman was a central figure in that cheating scandal, and bringing him to New York would be sacrilegious. We don’t need his baggage when we’ve got a straight-shooter like Bellinger to help us write the next chapter of Yankees greatness.

So, here’s to Cody Bellinger, a true Yankee at heart even before he joined the squad. Let’s go, Yankees! And let’s keep hating the Astros together.

YES, CASHMAN IS DOING US RIGHT, BUT ALEX BREGMAN'S WIFE ISN'T TELLING YOU NUTHIN'

Cashman can't get EVERY good player, calm down!

Alright, let’s take a deep breath, Yankee fans. The recent rumors about Alex Bregman possibly coming to the Bronx seem to have hit another level of "what are we even doing here?" And it’s not even about Bregman’s bat, which we all know could work wonders with Judge in the lineup. No, no, no. This latest frenzy is thanks to... wait for it... Bregman’s wife’s Instagram story.

Yes, you read that right. The clue to Bregman’s future was uncovered not in some trade rumors or insider reports, but in a Christmas card photo. I mean, who needs legitimate news sources when you’ve got holiday greetings, right? 

Apparently, on December 14th, Bregman’s wife decided to showcase a jazz band with “New York” in their name as the backdrop to her card. A Christmas card, people. So, naturally, some fans have gone full detective mode, interpreting this as a secret sign that Bregman is heading to the Yankees.

Let’s all take a moment, shall we? First off, calm down. The only thing this story proves is that Bregman’s wife has a taste for smooth tunes and possibly loves a little bit of New York jazz. She didn’t secretly reveal a Yankees contract offer in the form of holiday music. The connection is tenuous at best. I’m sure if Bregman had been planning to make a move to the Yankees, he would’ve chosen something a bit more definitive than a jazz band playing carols. Maybe something like a tweet that says, “I’m joining the Yankees,” or, you know, actual news.

Now, don’t get me wrong, Bregman would be a fine addition. If the Yankees decide to open the checkbook (again), his peak years do fit nicely with Aaron Judge’s, and we all know the Yankees can use another bat in that lineup. But let’s be real, here: He’s not some package delivered under the tree just because his wife picked a jazz band for Christmas. If we keep reading into Instagram stories this way, soon we’ll be convinced that every time a player’s wife posts a picture of a pizza, it means a trade is happening.

And speaking of spending, let’s talk about when the Yankees made their massive move for Juan Soto. Cashman has clearly convinced Hal Steinbrenner that that magic number of  $760 million that they didn't spend on Juan needs to be spent! And he's doing everything in his power to help the Yankees win by collecting talent. But... spoiler alert: Cashman can’t sign everyone. Maybe you want Bregman too. And while I understand the passion, let’s not pretend that every high-profile player is a guaranteed fit. Yes, it’s fun to dream, but it's also fun to not drive ourselves crazy over a jazz band.

In conclusion: Bregman’s wife’s Instagram story does not mean her husband is walking into Yankee Stadium any time soon IN ACTUAL YANKEE PINSTRIPES. It’s just a jazz band, folks. A nice one, I’m sure, but let’s not lose our heads over it. Take a step back, enjoy the music, and maybe let’s not take everything we see on social media as a sign of the next big trade.

We’ve got time to chill... and for the Yankees to spend that $760 million wisely!

I THINK CASHMAN IS TRYING TO SIGN A BIG NAME & I'M NOT DIGGING IT!

My coworkers tease me a lot and they tell me I have "spidey senses" often. Not sure why they call it that or if I agree with it BUT I do have this vibe that I can't seem to shake. Now that the Yankees have to move on to Plan C since they didn't get Kyle Tucker, I'm wondering if the Yankees are in deeper talks to sign Alex Bregman. 

My skin is crawling just thinking about it, because I can't stand Bregman. I've been vocal about it many times. I don't want his no integrity cheating arse in pinstripes. I will never change that opinion. However, if you look at what the Astros acquired when they gave up Tucker, it raises some eyebrows. The Cubs sent Isaac Paredes and Cam Smith to the Astros, who both play third base.

So looking deeper the Yankees traded away second base depth in Caleb Durbin so Cashman must have a plan, right? We know DJ LeMahieu can no longer be relied on for an everyday role, and Jazz Chisholm Jr can easily fill a need at second base.....but what about third? Before the Cubs and Astros completed their trade I thought there was a decent change Bregman stayed in Houston, but now that the Astros have two more options at third base who are cheaper a reunion between Bregman, and the Astros looks far less likely.

So, does Cashman's master plan include adding Bregman? It could. Defensively, he's a great pick up (he won a Gold Glove last season) and the Yankees desperately need to tighten up the defense, especially in the infield. Bregman had a 41-homer season in 2019 and hit 25 or more home runs four times. He's had four seasons of 90-plus RBI and even reached 100 twice. He's a career .272 hitter and never struck out 100 times in a season. The resume is impressive, but it is tainted by 2017 and even though some people tell me "that was a long time ago," it wasn't THAT long ago and it doesn't erase what happened. When you taint the game and disgrace it, that doesn't just fade away.

On paper, the Yankees and Bregman look to be a good match. I can't say I like it (I actually hate it), but it could be a fit. When you look at what Bregman's expectations are for a contract the Yankees have the means to give him what he wants. I just hope they don't give him what he wants.

This is one to keep an eye on....we should be hearing more about this and we aren't. We can credit the Cubs and Cody Bellinger for the distraction with their ongoing negotiations but this really COULD be a thing. I hope I am wrong, because the guy doesn't deserve to wear our uniform.....and you will never change my mind on that. EVER.

--Jeana Bellezza-Ochoa

BYB Senior Managing Editor

Twitter: @nyprincessj

I ADMIRE CASHMAN FOR BUILDING A BETTER TEAM, BUT THIS ONE I'M NOT FEELING

Let’s get this out of the way upfront: I’m not a huge fan of the idea of Alex Bregman joining the Yankees. Yes, the guy has been a Yankee killer for years, and yes, it would be poetic justice to have him hammering homers for us instead of against us. But the idea of Bregman—an Astro through and through—putting on the pinstripes just doesn’t sit right with me. That being said, I’ve got to hand it to Brian Cashman: he’s out here playing chess, not checkers, and his determination to upgrade this team has my full respect.

Let’s talk about what’s happening. Houston is stumbling when it comes to keeping Bregman around. They’ve offered him a massive six-year, $156 million deal—the largest in team history—but so far, no dice. Meanwhile, the Astros already dealt Kyle Tucker to the Cubs, and now the Yankees have entered the conversation, sniffing around for a bat to juice their offense.

Bregman’s numbers are solid. Sure, he got off to a slow start in 2024, but when it mattered most, he delivered—because that’s what Bregman does. He’s a consistent offensive force, a defensive stalwart at third, and a player who knows how to win. He’s the kind of guy who thrives in high-pressure situations.

So, why am I hesitant? It’s not his talent; it’s his baggage. Bregman was the face of the 2017 Astros—the team that cheated its way to a World Series. While some fans are willing to overlook that for the sake of winning, I’m not sure I can stomach seeing him celebrated in Yankee Stadium, a place built on tradition, integrity, and (mostly) clean victories.

Now, let’s shift to Cashman. I’ll admit, he’s taken his fair share of criticism in recent years—and I’ve been one of those critics. But right now, I have to tip my cap to him. Cashman is clearly on a mission this offseason, and he’s leaving no stone unturned in his quest to make the Yankees better.

“[Bregman’s] been a thorn in our side for years,” Cashman said recently. “Good players like him make a lot of money. I’ve had a conversation or two with Scott Boras with a lot of his clients, including Alex Bregman.” That’s the kind of aggressive mindset we need from the front office. Whether it’s Bregman, another slugger, or a sneaky under-the-radar move, Cashman’s eagerness to improve this team is refreshing—and it’s exactly what the Yankees need after falling short in 2024.

If the Yankees don’t land Bregman, he’s got other suitors. The Red Sox are hot on his trail, with manager Alex Cora and team president Sam Kennedy reportedly big fans. But Boston’s front office isn’t unanimous in its love for Bregman, which could create an opening for the Yankees to swoop in.

Detroit is also in the mix, but let’s be real—Detroit isn’t exactly the dream destination for a guy like Bregman. New York or Boston would clearly be the more appealing options, assuming the money’s right.

As much as I respect Cashman for exploring every avenue, I’m still not sold on the idea of Alex Bregman in pinstripes and it's definitely because of Cheat Gate.

That said, if Cashman pulls the trigger and brings Bregman to the Bronx, I’ll support the team like I always do. Winning cures a lot of ills, and who knows? Maybe Bregman, with his proven track record and big-game mentality, will win me over. Until then, I’m cautiously skeptical—but grateful that Cashman is doing everything in his power to get us back on top.

WILLY ADAMES? YOU CANNOT BE SERIOUS!

Bob Nightengale of USA Today is back, tossing offseason spaghetti at the wall to see what sticks. This time, he’s stirring up the Yankees rumor mill, throwing out a scenario so convoluted it feels like a fever dream. If the Yankees don’t re-sign Juan Soto—because apparently, that’s an option—they might respond with a mad scramble to:

1.Sign free-agent first baseman Christian Walker.

2.Bring in either Willy Adames or Alex Bregman to play third base.
3.Move Jazz Chisholm to second base.
4.Trade for Cody Bellinger.

Simple.

It’s like one of those overcomplicated heist movies where you lose track of the plot halfway through. Classic Bob Nightengale. 

Let’s cut through the noise: there’s no real traction to this Adames-to-the-Yankees idea. It’s speculation, pure and simple, and Bob’s good at that. But hey, it’s fun to imagine. Maybe next Trevor Bauer will go to the Mets.

Willy Adames is coming off a solid year and would be a fantastic addition to any team. He’s one of the best power-hitting shortstops in the game and has said he’d prefer to stay at shortstop. However, he’s also open to shifting to third base if needed—versatility that makes him a tantalizing target for teams like the Yankees or Mets apparently.

For the Brewers, losing Adames wouldn't be great. Not only is he a key player, but he’s also a leader in the clubhouse according to reports. I don't know the Brewers well, but that's the way it seems. 

Adames has hinted he’d take a hometown discount to stay in Milwaukee—but only to a point. As he told The Athletic: "I’m willing to stay here for less money, let’s say, but I just want to be fair for what I deserve in my career. We just have to wait and see where we’re at."

And now we get to the voice of reason: Jeff Passan. When Passan speaks, baseball fans listen. He’s right up there with Jack Curry and Pete Caldera—arguably the top three baseball reporters out there. While Nightengale’s rumors are like a fast-food drive-thru, Passan is the five-star restaurant of insight.

In his offseason preview, Passan doesn’t just toss Adames at the Yankees for fun. Instead, he points to the Giants as the most logical landing spot. With new president of baseball operations Buster Posey prioritizing the shortstop position, the fit is almost too good to ignore.

Sure, Passan acknowledges the Yankees, Mets, and Dodgers could be in the mix, especially with Adames’ willingness to move to third base. But Passan’s call of Adames to San Francisco? That’s the kind of grounded, well-sourced prediction that makes sense.

So, could the Yankees swoop in and snag Adames? Anything’s possible, but this feels more like Bob Nightengale playing offseason DJ, spinning hypothetical hits. Meanwhile, Jeff Passan is the guy calmly taking the pulse of the market—and if he’s leaning toward the Giants, I’m buying it.

It's just how I feel, sorry Bob.

ALEX BREGMAN RUMBLINGS & I WANT NOTHING TO DO WITH IT

Alex Bregman to the Yankees? Sure, why not just have Aaron Judge hand over his captaincy and the Yankees officially rename themselves the Bronx Turncoats while we’re at it? If there’s one thing Yankee fans hate more than losing to the Astros, it’s losing to the Astros because of a trash-can symphony. And Alex Bregman? He was front and center, banging the drum (or rather, benefiting from its banging), smugly smirking his way through the 2017 postseason while the Yankees were left wondering if they should’ve just brought their own garbage lids to Minute Maid Park.

Let’s face it: Yankee fans don’t just dislike Bregman—they despise him. He’s right up there with mosquitoes, traffic on the Cross Bronx, and Red Sox fans who won’t stop talking about 2004. Every time Bregman steps into Yankee Stadium, he’s serenaded with a chorus of boos so loud you’d think Taylor Swift just announced she hates the Yankees. Bringing him to the Bronx would be like hiring the Grinch to run SantaCon. It’s madness.

The mere thought of Bregman in pinstripes is enough to give Yankee fans hives. Sure, he’s a good third baseman. Gold Glove winner in 2024, great defensive metrics, solid bat. But does that really matter? Yankee fans don’t want to see his numbers; they want to see him hit by a pitch—preferably while a plane flies a banner over Yankee Stadium reading “2017 WAS A SHAM.”

And let’s not forget why. The Astros scandal wasn’t just any old scandal. It was the kind of betrayal that sticks with you, like spilling mustard on your Derek Jeter jersey. Yankee fans have been stewing in that betrayal for years, forced to relive it every time Houston comes to town and chants of “cheater” echo through the stands. Now, the Yankees are supposedly thinking about signing one of the scandal’s poster boys? Why stop there? Maybe bring back Carlos Beltrán and name him head of player ethics.

Imagine the first time Bregman steps up to the plate in pinstripes. The boos would rain down like they were auditioning for a horror movie. Yankee fans would need their vocal cords insured. The Bleacher Creatures would invent chants so brutal, even Philly fans would take notes. Someone might try to hurl a replica trash can onto the field.

And what about Bregman’s apology for the cheating scandal? Oh, yes, the heartfelt “I’m sorry” that came with all the sincerity of a politician denying a scandal. Yankee fans didn’t buy it then, and they sure won’t forget it now. This is a fanbase that holds grudges like they’re heirlooms. Goose Gossage still complains about pitch counts, for crying out loud.

Look, signing Bregman might make sense in some sterile baseball vacuum where numbers and metrics are all that matter. But this is the Yankees, where tradition, pride, and sticking it to Houston are sacred. Yankee fans don’t want a Gold Glove third baseman if it means they have to cheer for a guy they’ve spent years heckling. They want championships—but they want to win them their way. And that way doesn’t include welcoming an Astro, especially one as synonymous with the cheating scandal as Bregman.

So, sure, go ahead, Yankees. Sign Alex Bregman. Just don’t be surprised if, by Opening Day, the Bleacher Creatures are wearing Mets hats out of spite.