NO "MISSION ACCOMPLISHED" THAT I CAN SEE

Mission Accomplished? How about "Mission, who's starting Game 3?"

So, let’s just say it out loud: The Yankees don’t have a new starting pitcher. You can dress it up in Pinstripes and slap a hype video on it, but facts are facts. They’ve got closers. Lots of closers. Enough closers to start a whole separate bullpen league. But a starter? The thing they actually needed? Nope. Not one. Not a single real-deal, innings-eating, rotation-stabilizing starting pitcher.

And yet, somehow, Brian Cashman stood in front of cameras with a straight face and dropped the words:

“Mission accomplished.”

What is this, a bad sequel to Moneyball? Except this time, it’s Funnyball — and the punchline is us. Sure, Cashman also said,

“I know we’re better today than we were yesterday.”

Cool. But saying we’re better is like putting whipped cream on a trash can. Still garbage underneath.

Let’s review the receipts, shall we?
Gerrit Cole: still out post-Tommy John.
Clarke Schmidt: same surgery, same fate — toast.
Luis Gil: M.I.A. since February with a lat issue.

Marcus Stroman: Um
And that’s your top-end depth, folks. Behind them? A collection of “openers,” “bullpen games,” and desperate finger-crossing.

We have Max Fried and Carlos Rodon and I'm thrilled with that. But that's not gonna help anyone in a short series and the Yankees are not thinking ahead. And what’s worse — nobody in the front office seems remotely panicked about it. The Boone-Cashman tag team continues to operate like a malfunctioning GPS: absolutely convinced they know the way, ignoring every single “WRONG TURN” alert.

Enter David Samson. Now, listen — I don’t like the guy. He’s a smug little troll who used to run the Marlins and was bad at it. But unfortunately… he's right.

“They act like everything’s fine,” Samson said. “But it’s not.”
On Volpe’s defense? “No, he’s not [good out there]. You know that.”

This from a guy I’d normally dismiss as a human mosquito, but at this point, I’d rather hear him than another Boone soliloquy about grit and “playing the game the right way.” Enough already.

Volpe’s defense has been brutal. We’re past the point of “rough patch.” It’s a liability. But Boone just smirks and spins it like he’s selling timeshares. And the fanbase? We’re not stupid. We know what we’re seeing. And what we’re seeing is a front office that’s perfectly fine settling for kinda okay.

We’re 3.5 games back. Could we make a run? Absolutely. But this isn’t about just sneaking into October — it’s about winning a championship. And right now, this roster isn't built for that. 

Meanwhile, the Seattle Mariners — a team with actual vision — loaded up with Josh Naylor and Eugenio Suárez to thicken their lineup, and Caleb Ferguson to reinforce the ‘pen. All without coughing up elite prospects. That’s how you win a deadline. That’s how you push chips in without flipping the table. The Yankees? They scrambled like it was a fantasy league draft and Cashman got auto-picked eight middle relievers.

And don’t even get me started on Michael Kay. This man — sitting high on his YES throne — tried to sell us the idea that Boone “got to the World Series” and you have to give Boone credit for that? Um, no we don't. This tool actually suggested that Boone got there with two guys who don't even have jobs this season: Anthony Rizzo and Alex Verdugo.

Excuse me? Let’s talk numbers:

 
Verdugo had 8 RBIs, and 6 runs scored in the postseason.  Rizzo? .267 average in 10 playoff games. That’s production, not irrelevance. So why is Kay acting like they were lucky fans who won a raffle to be in the lineup? They did their job last year's post season.

Kay is defending the indefensible. He’s gaslighting Yankee fans into believing that this mess is part of a master plan. He also gets paid by the Yankees, so see how that works? He's actually suggesting that Boone is a misunderstood genius and Cashman is some modern-day baseball Mozart. But it’s garbage. All of it. The Yankees front office picks wrong, sticks with wrong, and then tries to convince you that wrong is the new right. Just look at Volpe.

Let’s make this simple: You don’t win rings with vibes. You win with starters.  You don’t build a championship roster around hope and “he’s trending up.” analytics. You build it by addressing obvious, gaping holes with urgency — something the Yankees have lacked for years. But remember fans, the money’s still pouring in, so why change?

Well, here's why: fans aren’t stupid. We’re fed up. This deadline wasn’t bold — it was bizarre. It was Cashman filling a wine cellar when the roof is caving in.  So yeah, we might still make the playoffs. But what then? Another flameout while Boone shrugs and says he “liked our compete”? No thanks. I’ve seen that movie — and spoiler alert — it doesn’t end well.

This team, as constructed, isn’t winning the World Series. They aren’t built for a parade — they’re built for a press conference. And once again, us fans are left with the bill and the empty trophy case in Loserville.

THE END OF VERDUGO THIS SEASON?

Wow!

The Braves have designated Alex Verdugo for assignment to make room for Jurickson Profar, and all I can think is: how did we get here? How did he get here?

Verdugo is 29. That’s not old. That’s not “washed.” That’s “should still be slugging doubles into the gap and firing missiles from right field” territory. But here we are, DFA’d in July like he’s just some roster filler, and not the passionate, fiery outfielder who once carried himself like he belonged in the thick of every big moment.

And yeah, let’s not pretend this is actually the end. This league has seen worse players get third, fourth, and fifth chances. But it feels like the end right now, and that’s the problem. Because Verdugo isn’t some lazy journeyman who never gave a damn. He cared. You could see it in the way he played—when he was allowed to just play. This is a guy who has always brought energy to the field. A gamer. A spark plug. A guy who clearly loves the grind.

And yet somehow, the Yankees got ahold of him and—poof—he's unraveling like a loose thread on a 99-dollar replica jersey.

Remember when he was the Dodgers’ top prospect? Remember when Boston flipped Mookie Betts for him? It didn’t pan out in Boston. He clashed with Alex Cora, sure—but "lack of hustle?" Come on. I rip guys who don’t hustle. Just ask Robinson Cano (read HERE). Ask Anthony Volpe (read HERE). But Verdugo? He was never the problem.

Then came the trade to New York. The pinstripes. The “fresh start.” Except… was it really? Or was it just another case of this black hole of a franchise chewing up another guy who actually plays with heart?

In 197 plate appearances this season with the Braves, Verdugo slashed .239/.296/.585. No home runs. 12 RBIs. Not good. But you don’t go from promising outfielder to DFA’d by two teams without something deeper being wrong. And no, I don’t think it’s Verdugo. I think it’s the Yankees. They turned him into a shell of the player we once saw as a clubhouse energizer and everyday guy. They stuck him in a lineup with zero identity and a manager who couldn’t lead a jog around the block, let alone a major league clubhouse. I say it jokingly, because that's where he seemed to vanish.

So yeah, I feel for Verdugo. I hope he latches on somewhere—hell, maybe I’ll wake up tomorrow after dreaming that the Yankees bring him back on a minor league deal, he starts raking, gets called up, goes full October legend and leads us to a ring.

And then I’ll write that piece, happily. But don’t worry—I’ll still say Boone sucks. Because no matter who’s in the dugout or on the field, that part hasn’t changed.

I hope Alex latches on somewhere.

BLOG SUGGESTS YANKS SHOULD HAVE PLAYED GRISHAM OVER VERDUGO

Grisham over Verdugo in 2024 appears to always have been the move, and the Yankees blew it, again. 

Well, what do you know—Yanks Go Yard comes out swinging and absolutely crushes one with their latest take. They’ve pointed out something Yankee fans have been grumbling about since last summer but maybe didn’t quite articulate this sharply: “Trent Grisham is making it clearer every day he should've played over Alex Verdugo with the 2024 Yankees.”

Boom. Here’s the thing—the Yankees, supposedly darlings of modern baseball analytics, are suggested to have botch a decision that probably could’ve been solved with a napkin and a Sharpie. This is the same franchise that’s touted as a pioneer in data-driven player development, yet they couldn’t run the numbers to see Grisham—yes, the same guy who posted 10.1 WAR from 2020 to 2023—was likely to offer more value than Verdugo, who clocked in at a decent but clearly lesser 8.0 WAR in that same span.

And no, we’re not just box score watching. Verdugo was supposed to be the “contact guy.” Low strikeouts, decent OBP, solid glove. But after a hot April last year, he turned into a pumpkin. He never OPS’ed above .687 in any month post-April. Not once. You know how hard that is to do when you're playing every day in Yankee Stadium?

 
Meanwhile, Trent Grisham, the power-speed Gold Glover with untapped offensive upside, was collecting splinters on the bench—and a cool $5.5 million—for doing nothing. Not because he wasn’t good enough, but because the Yankees never gave him a real chance. Imagine paying someone that much to not help your team.

Fast forward. Grisham is finally getting reps in the Bronx, and surprise: he’s raking. Hitting .320 with 6 bombs and a 1.093 OPS, all while playing his usual solid defense. This isn't just a hot streak. It’s a giant, flashing sign reading: “Hey, I should’ve been out there last year.”

And as for Verdugo? Well, he’s now with the Braves and hitting .341 with an .850 OPS in his first 10 games. So yeah—good for him. But that’s not really the point, is it?

The real kicker here is the irony. The Yankees—the self-proclaimed kings of baseball analytics—somehow managed to miss this obvious call. Depending on who you ask, they either have one of the most advanced analytical systems in the league or one of the smallest staffs in the AL East. Either way, someone’s not reading the right spreadsheets.

Michael Fishman, the man at the helm of the Yankees’ analytics department, has been praised in some circles. But if this is the output—players like Grisham buried while underperformers are force-fed opportunities—then we’ve got to ask: are these really the right analytics? Or just a really fancy way of justifying bad decisions?

Aaron Judge, ever the diplomat, offered a telling quote after the 2023 letdown:

“I think it’s about funneling [the numbers] down to the players in the right format… I think maybe we might be looking at the wrong ones.”

Now Judge is being polite, but let’s call it what it is. The players don’t pick the numbers—they’re given the numbers, instructed by the analytics team. So if the Yankees are looking at the wrong ones, it’s not a player issue—it’s a leadership issue. And this Grisham-Verdugo mix-up is just another shining example.

It’s honestly baffling. Outsiders, fans, blogs like Yanks Go Yard, us here at BYB, we all see the problems clear as day. Yet the folks inside the organization—the ones getting paid to see them—are the ones missing the forest for the trees.

At some point, something’s got to give. Until then, we’re stuck watching talented players bloom after leaving New York or only when injuries force their hand. It's the ongoing saga of the Boone era: great potential, questionable choices, and a whole lot of missed opportunities.

Yanks Go Yard nailed this one. The irony stings, but the truth? It’s sharper than ever.

ALEX VERDUGO MAY GET HIS SHOT

What an incredible turn of events for Alex Verdugo! The Atlanta Braves just got hit with some unexpected news—outfielder Jurickson Profar has been suspended for 80 games after testing positive for a performance-enhancing drug. Major League Baseball made the official announcement, with reporter Mike Rodriguez breaking the initial story that Profar’s positive test would lead to a lengthy suspension. 

Profar had just signed a hefty three-year, $42 million contract with Atlanta, but now he’s set to miss half of the 2025 season due to his use of hCG, a testosterone-boosting substance.

While this is certainly a major shake-up for the Braves, it could turn out to be an incredible opportunity for none other than Alex Verdugo! The former Yankees outfielder, who played a pivotal role in New York’s run to the 2024 World Series, was surprisingly left on the free-agent market far longer than expected. But the Braves saw his potential and scooped him up on March 20th with a minor-league deal worth $1.5 million.

Now, with Profar out of the lineup, Verdugo could be on the fast track to a starting role in Atlanta! According to Athlon Sports, "Verdugo was assigned to Triple-A Gwinnett following his signing, but may get a call up to the big leagues in the wake of this announcement." That prediction is looking more and more likely by the minute!

Verdugo brings solid defense, a fiery competitive spirit, and the kind of postseason experience that can make a real impact for a team aiming for another deep playoff run. His journey has been full of surprises, but this twist could be the perfect setup for him to shine on baseball’s biggest stage once again.

Stay tuned, because this Braves outfield situation just got a whole lot more interesting—and Alex Verdugo might just be the one to benefit the most!

"LUIS ROBERT TO THE YANKEES" APPEARS VERY REAL

The never-ending Giancarlo Stanton saga continues to dominate sports media, and frankly, it’s exhausting. Every day brings a new rumor, a fresh speculation, or yet another bold claim that the Yankees "NEED" a right-handed bat. It must be true, right? After all, Alex Verdugo and Anthony Rizzo—both lefties—have been available, yet the Yankees haven’t doubled back on that market.

And now, the latest name tossed into the rumor mill? Luis Robert of the Chicago White Sox.

According to MLB insider Robert Murray, Yankees general manager Brian Cashman is working the phones, exploring trade options to bolster the roster ahead of the 2025 season. AIBat fuels the speculation, stating, "Is Luis Robert on the New York Yankees' radar? It sure looks like it! The Yankees are considering adding a right-handed power hitter to their starting lineup."

Robert, while not actively demanding a trade, is well aware that his time with the White Sox could be coming to an end. Stuck in a brutal rebuild after a disastrous 121-loss season, Chicago seems poised to move its most valuable assets.

“From the business perspective, yes, I know there is a big chance of me being traded because it makes sense for the team and for the situation,” Robert told MLB.com. “I understand that. That’s something I have to live with and I will have to accept.”

Athlon Sports adds to the conversation, noting, "It’s probably not a great sign that Robert admitted he expected the White Sox to trade him. Then again, sportsbooks widely believe the White Sox will lose over 100 games again, so any positives on the South Side are few and far between."

So, is this actually happening? Is Luis Robert destined for pinstripes, or is this just another week of speculation leading to nothing? With Opening Day here, the Yankees are on the clock—if something’s brewing, when will it happen? Or are we just bracing for another round of empty noise? Stay tuned.

WHY DID THE YANKEES WALK AWAY FROM ALEX VERDUGO?

Well, I am gonna bet free agency was a stressful and humbling experience for Alex Verdugo. It can't be easy going from an American League championship team to a minor leaguer. I also wouldn't be surprised if he's aware of what is being reported out there because it doesn't paint the prettiest of pictures.

There are several sources talking about this story, but you can check out one of them HERE. As several have cited, teams were concerned with Verdugo's off field issues including the Yankees. Over the winter we wrote a few pieces, shocked that he didn't have more interest. Sure, he struggled especially in the second half of the season but he was well liked in the clubhouse and was a great defender. Anthony Volpe described him as a "ride or die" and Giancarlo Stanton raved about him and called him an "incredible dude." Aaron Judge also sang his praises. He fit in well with the team....but apparently didn't impress Yankee brass enough to bring him back.

Even Aaron Boone at least pretended to be shocked by it when he gave words of support for Verdugo, read more HERE. I loved his glove for sure, even though his bat frustrated me. Considering what the Braves signed him for, it was a no-brainer financial commitment. "The Braves got a really good player for not a lot of money," Boone said and I can't say he's entirely wrong for once.

But apparently, enough teams were concerned enough to not pay $1.5 million even on a minor league deal. Verdugo is not a big leaguer now, and maybe this will be a wake-up call to help get him back to show. There are a lot of rumors out there, and the only ones I like to talk about are free agent ones so this one doesn't excite me enough to go into details on the why's.

It does make me think about the bigger picture though. The three big name teams all walked away from him. In his minor league days, the Dodgers walked away from him, then Alex Cora had a strained relationship with him in 2023 after Verdugo's tardiness on game days. He was benched and eventually led the Red Sox to trade him to the Yankees before the 2024 season and now he's got a minor league gig. Three of the top organizations in baseball decided to move on to other players. The Yankees could've easily brought Verdugo back after Juan Soto split... but they didn't.

Which makes me wonder if there was also more to the story about Verdugo and his chains. The Yankees told him to cut it down from several to one. It felt like Boone half-jokingly told that story last season, but it doesn't paint a good picture now. I've seen people online jump to their own conclusions that Verdugo was more interested in his jewelry than playing baseball, which made the Yankees walk away after he didn't meet offensive expectations.

So many rumors out there with not a lot of facts (as usual) which leads everyone to jump to their own conclusions. Here's a real fact though, Verdugo has another chance with another top organization and honestly, I hope he makes the most of it. The Yankees are a disaster right now....and his own teammates wanted him back. Apparently, that wasn't worth enough to give him what the Braves did....which is strange.

Good luck in Atlanta, Verdugo.

--Jeana Bellezza-Ochoa

BYB Senior Managing Editor

Twitter: @nyprincessj

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RIZZO & VERDUGO GET BIG TIME SUPPORT!

THE SAD STORY OF ALEX VERDUGO

ALEX VERDUGO HAS FOUND HIS HOME!

Congrats to Alex Verdugo!

Alex Verdugo’s long wait in free agency is finally over, and it feels like a major win—not just for him, but for baseball as a whole in my opinion. Call me dramatic, I don't care. 

A big part of this can be credited to players like Eric Hosmer and Aaron Judge, as well as plenty of us in the sports media world, who have openly called out Major League Baseball and its owners for allowing talented players to sit on the sidelines while teams hesitate to spend.

Hosmer, in particular, was vocal about it on his podcast, emphasizing that organizations shouldn’t be too stingy to invest in quality players. That kind of advocacy seemed to help push things forward, and in the end, the Atlanta Braves made the right call by signing Verdugo. They won’t regret it.

After an offseason spent waiting for an opportunity, Verdugo has secured a deal with Atlanta—inking a $1.5 million contract that, for now, sees him heading to Triple-A. It may not be the immediate big-league return he hoped for, but it’s a chance to prove himself and earn his way back to the majors.

There’s no denying Verdugo struggled in the second half of his time with the Yankees, but he’s betting on himself now. A fresh start with the Braves could be exactly what he needs to turn things around.

And as we look ahead, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Anthony Rizzo as the next veteran to find a new home. His performance dipped in New York, but he’s still a solid player who could contribute elsewhere.

For now, though, all eyes are on Verdugo as he gets a new chapter in his career. Best of luck, Alex—go make the most of it!

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RIZZO & VERDUGO GET BIG TIME SUPPORT!

RIZZO & VERDUGO GET BIG TIME SUPPORT!

Big-time athletes, the ones with real stature in the league, need to speak up. No, it’s not going to suddenly flip the market upside down, but what it will do is make big-time team owners take a step back and think, "You know what? Rizzo still has value... Verdugo can still contribute." And that’s exactly the kind of reevaluation that needs to happen.

We saw a step in the right direction when Aaron Judge spoke out about Alex Verdugo. Brendan Kuty spoke with some current Yankees about why Verdugo is still on the market, and their responses were pretty telling.

“I’m surprised,” Judge said when asked about Verdugo’s situation, per Kuty. “He’s such a great player. He brings so much value and versatility to a team.”

That was a big deal. Judge isn’t just any player—he’s the Yankees’ captain, the face of the franchise, and when he speaks, people listen. But now, former World Series champ Eric Hosmer is joining the conversation, and unlike Judge, he isn’t just surprised—he’s downright fuming.

“How are we living in a world where the everyday LF and 1B for the New York Yankees' World Series team don’t have jobs after the first MLB game of the season?” Hosmer wrote on Twitter.“Not even an offer for one of them!”

Hosmer is frustrated, and honestly, he’s got a point. Experience is supposed to mean something. Verdugo and Rizzo weren’t just guys who happened to be on a roster—they were everyday starters for a team that went deep into October. And now? Crickets.

“So then how were they everyday guys for the NEW YORK YANKEES all the way up until the World Series and then all of a sudden no opportunities to go out and get a job?”

That’s the million-dollar question, isn’t it? Verdugo made $8.7 million last season, while Rizzo was finishing off a two-year, $40 million deal with the Yankees. The team declined his $17 million option for 2025, choosing instead to pay him a $6 million buyout. And now, neither of them has a deal?

Maybe they’ll land somewhere soon. Maybe they won’t. But right now, there’s more discussion about them on social media than in MLB front offices, and that’s a problem. These guys aren’t washed; they can still contribute in different ways. Verdugo is a defensive dog, and his bat will find its way back. Rizzo? He can still launch some bombs at DH and be a steady first base option to give a starter a break. Plus, let’s not forget the leadership factor—Rizzo isn’t just a player, he’s a mentor, a veteran presence, the kind of guy who holds a clubhouse together when the season gets long and grueling.

Hosmer stepping up to support them is just as important as Judge speaking out. Why? Because Hosmer has a different kind of audience. He’s got his podcast, his social media presence, and when he speaks, people who might not normally pay attention suddenly tune in. If enough respected voices keep this conversation going, maybe—just maybe—teams will start paying attention.

Here’s my take: Rizzo and Verdugo can still play, plain and simple. And you know what? The Yankees’ reputation as a place where careers go to die is not doing them any favors. If that’s the message the Yankees are sending, it’s only going to make it harder to sign top talent in the future. Players talk. If guys think New York is where you go to have your career forgotten, that’s a serious problem for a team that prides itself on being a destination franchise.

So, credit where it’s due...  tip of the cap to Eric Hosmer. Always a stand-up guy, always willing to say what needs to be said, and clearly, not afraid to ruffle some feathers. Now let’s see if anyone in an MLB front office is actually paying attention.

THE MYSTERY OF ALEX VERDUGO

Alex Verdugo remains unsigned, and it just doesn’t seem fair. 

When you compare his situation to Anthony Rizzo’s, the contrast is striking. Sure, you can argue that Rizzo is nearing the end of his career while Verdugo still has some prime years left, but both players can still hit. At this point, it’s all about what teams need this spring and whether they’re willing to take a chance.

I’ve made my case that the Yankees could easily sign one of these guys on a short-term deal to help stabilize the lineup while Giancarlo Stanton recovers. You can talk all you want about righty vs. lefty matchups and throw around statistics, but the bottom line is this: both players can hit home runs, and either one could step in to provide some needed depth. But let’s be real—if the Yankees were going to make a move for Verdugo or Rizzo, it probably would have happened by now.

Verdugo was an interesting figure in 2024. He hit .233, which wasn’t exactly impressive, but he brought energy to the team, often leading the charge in the dugout. Brendan Kuty spoke with some current Yankees about why he’s still available, and their responses were telling.

“I’m surprised,” Aaron Judge said when asked about Verdugo’s situation, according to Kuty. “He’s such a great player. He brings so much value and versatility to a team.”

Kuty also got a comment from Anthony Volpe, though I’ll be honest—I don’t put much stock in what Volpe has to say. He doesn’t strike me as a leader, and frankly, I find him a bit immature. That said, here’s what he had to offer: “I don’t really know what to say or whether or not people want to talk about it or not, but he’s grinding. He’s putting a lot of work in in Arizona.”

The reality is, Verdugo is still a big-league-caliber player. His free agency has dragged on, but that could change as teams reassess their rosters early in the season. The Yankees, for all their posturing, could use a player like Verdugo. One season of his contributions would be a clear upgrade over the mess they’re currently dealing with. Yet, for some reason, they seem to think they’re too good for him.

I’m here to say that the Yankees are a disaster right now, and Verdugo could help. It’s time for Brian Cashman to swallow his pride and make a move. Your own players are advocating for this guy. Use your head, Cashman—Verdugo is still a valuable asset.

A NEW TEAM IS SNIFFING AROUND VERDUGO

Alex Verdugo remains unsigned as the regular season approaches, and his options appear to be dwindling. Not long ago, the Pittsburgh Pirates showed interest, reportedly offering him an $8 million deal—an offer he ultimately turned down. At the time, Verdugo may have held out hope for a return to the Bronx, but as we move deeper into March, that decision is looking questionable. Right now, instead of having a contract in hand, he has nothing.

Recently, the Kansas City Royals have emerged as a potential landing spot for the 28-year-old outfielder. Despite his solid defensive skills, Verdugo's offensive production in 2024—just 13 home runs—was underwhelming, making a reunion with the Yankees unlikely. Some projections still place his potential contract value around $60 million, but with many teams already set for the season, his market is limited. Aside from Pittsburgh, no other team has publicly extended an offer. His projected contract value is $60 million and when you think about it, it's pretty ridiculous when you realize he only had 14 Home Runs in 2024. For now, Verdugo remains in limbo, waiting to see if a team will take a chance on him before Opening Day.

I wish this dude well, he's a good teammate and still has something to offer to any team.  

WHAT ARE THE YANKEES GONNA DO ABOUT REPLACING STANTON'S BAT?

There has been plenty of debate among us bloggers and sportswriters about what the Yankees need to replace Giancarlo Stanton. The bottom line? We need a home run hitter. Truth be told, I’m not one of those stat nerds obsessed with righty-lefty splits—I just want a reliable hitter. Righty, lefty, it doesn’t matter to me. What does matter is that Opening Day is just around the corner, and Stanton has officially fallen apart, thanks to his never-ending elbow issues and Achilles problems.

So the real question is: can we just get a replacement and move on?

Pinstripe Alley has made it clear that they believe the Yankees need a right-handed bat, and I respect their take. They argue that, with Stanton out, the Yankees lack a true right-handed power threat outside of Aaron Judge and, hopefully, Paul Goldschmidt. They point out that key players like Austin Wells, Cody Bellinger, and Jazz Chisholm all hit from the left side. Anthony Volpe hasn’t yet proven he can be a consistent offensive force. Oswaldo Cabrera’s power is significantly better from the left side (16 homers) than the right (just three). 

The Yankees seem to recognize this imbalance and are reportedly still scouring the market for a right-handed bat. Everson Pereira was once a possibility, but he was reassigned to minor league camp to continue rehabbing from Tommy John surgery. And now, with Jon Heyman reporting that Stanton won’t return until at least Memorial Day, the need for a righty bat is even more urgent.

I get it—I really do. But honestly? I just want the hole filled. I’m losing patience. J.D. Martinez was a name that kept popping up for weeks, but that talk has completely faded. My stance has been simple: just sign someone who can hit. Alex Verdugo, Anthony Rizzo—who cares if they’re lefties? It’s a DH spot, it’s potentially a one-year deal, and these guys will give you something. Maybe it’s not perfect, but it’s better than doing nothing.

Now, The Sporting News is pushing the idea that Ben Rice could make sense as Stanton’s replacement. They highlight his impressive spring performance, including a home run off Taijuan Walker. Rice, a lefty with a smooth swing, was a 12th-round pick out of Dartmouth in 2021 but has quickly made a name for himself.

So what do we really need? A hitter—plain and simple. Analysts can crunch all the numbers that suggest a right-handed bat is necessary, but at the end of the day, the Yankees aren’t making a move. That tells me Rice may have the inside track for the DH spot. If they truly believed they needed a righty, they would’ve signed J.D. Martinez already.

One thing is certain: this uncertainty with both Gerrit Cole and Giancarlo Stanton out is driving us all crazy. The offseason was amazing, and we thought we were set. But now? It feels chaotic. Stay tuned.

THE SAD STORY OF ALEX VERDUGO

 Alex Verdugo is still a free agent, and the buzz around him has gotten eerily quiet. But here’s the twist—according to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, Verdugo actually turned down a solid offer from the Pittsburgh Pirates. Word on the street is that it was an $8 million deal, but Dugie said, “Nah, I’ll pass.”

Why would he do that? Maybe he’s holding out for a better fit. Maybe he’s banking on a team with real playoff potential. Or—and this is where things get interesting—maybe he’s waiting for the Yankees to come knocking one more time.

Let’s be real, the Yankees-Verdugo experiment seemed doomed from the start. He arrived in the Bronx with a chip on his shoulder, had some ups and downs, and ultimately found himself traded away in the Juan Soto blockbuster. But what if that wasn’t the end of the story? What if Verdugo still belongs in pinstripes, even if it’s just on a short-term deal?

Hear me out. Giancarlo Stanton is out with tennis elbow, and the Yankees need a bat to hold things down while he rehabs. They’ve got the money. Verdugo would come cheap. And for all the whispers about him being “damaged goods” or a guy that teams don’t want to deal with anymore, let’s not forget—this dude can still hit. His left-handed bat plays well in Yankee Stadium, and say what you want about his attitude, but his former teammates had no problem with him in the clubhouse.

So why not give Verdugo a one-year deal and let him bet on himself? If he rakes, the Yankees win. If he flops, no big deal—they move on. But one thing is clear: he loved being a Yankee, and if he’s still holding out hope for a reunion, maybe the front office should at least pick up the phone.

Verdugo’s market has been slower than expected this offseason, with the Astros and Angels sniffing around but not making any big moves. The Pirates wanted him, but he wasn’t interested. That says something. Maybe it’s time for the Yankees to take another look. Stay tuned—this story might not be over just yet.

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UNDERSTANDING GIANCARLO STANTON'S ELBOWS

I LOVE THE BALLS ON ALEX VERDUGO!

VERDUGO STILL OUT THERE WITH THE HOPE TO FIND A HOME

Alex Verdugo’s time with the Yankees was a bit of a rollercoaster—flashes of brilliance, a solid presence in the clubhouse, but ultimately, a second-half slump that left his future in limbo. It’s surprising that no team has scooped him up yet. For a brief moment, there were whispers that the Pirates might make a move, but that chatter quickly fizzled. And now? He’s still waiting, still trying to work his way back to the majors.

Could the Yankees take another look? It seems unlikely, but stranger things have happened. If they’re looking for a bat to take some pressure off Giancarlo Stanton, Verdugo’s name should at least be in the conversation. At the end of last season, Verdugo was candid about his struggles, acknowledging that 2024 wasn’t his best showing at the plate:

“I know it wasn’t my best personal year on offense... I think there would be [the possibility] that maybe one day we can come back—if it’s not next year, maybe it’s another year. But I would like to come back and just show the type of player that I really am. I think we’ve seen it defensively, seen it at times offensively, but I’m usually a lot more consistent.”

Verdugo isn’t wrong. His defense was solid, with Fangraphs crediting him with a plus-seven defensive runs saved mark. But offensively, he struggled down the stretch. In the post season, he managed just a .208 average (10-for-48) and struck out to end Game 5 of the World Series. As Matt Ehalt of the New York Post put it:

“The Yankees, though, kept giving Verdugo chance after chance, and he started all 14 postseason games, batting .208 (10-for-48) and striking out to end Game 5 of the World Series. While his bat disappointed, Verdugo did provide above-average defense... A reunion with the Yankees has not been in the cards.”

But in today’s league, is a .208 postseason average really that bad? The White Sox just signed Joey Gallo, a guy with a career batting average hovering around .194, to a new deal. So, there has to be room for Verdugo somewhere, right?

Whether it’s a minor league deal or a late spring training signing, Verdugo deserves another shot. He’s still a major league player, still a guy who brings value, and by all accounts, a great teammate. That’s got to count for something, doesn’t it?

A FAMILIAR FACE JUST BECAME A POTENTIAL STANTON REPLACEMENT

With Giancarlo Stanton set to start the season on the injured list, the Yankees are once again staring at a familiar problem—how to replace a big bat in the lineup. Naturally, the rumor mill has been working overtime, with names like J.D. Martinez emerging as possible short-term solutions. Jon Heyman reported that the Yankees have at least reached out to Martinez, which could be nothing more than due diligence—or a sign that they’re looking for a cheap, low-risk fix.

But here’s the thing: The Yankees don’t necessarily need to bring in an aging slugger when a younger, more versatile option is just sitting there—Alex Verdugo.

Verdugo remains unsigned, and the Yankees already know what they’re getting with him. He put up solid numbers in the Bronx last season, understands the market, and wouldn’t require an adjustment period. As I pointed out on BYB, in our article JD MARTINEZ CHATTER GETTING LOUDER, the Yankees have other internal options as well:

"If a short-term deal can be struck, Martinez could be an intriguing option. However, the Yankees also have in-house alternatives—one being a familiar face in Anthony Rizzo. Utilizing Rizzo in a designated hitter role would eliminate the need for him to play defense, and while he’s a lefty, the primary goal here is power at the plate, isn't it? Another potential option is Alex Verdugo, who remains unsigned but has a proven ability to hit. Unlike Martinez, these alternatives would provide a younger and possibly more versatile solution." 

 And, Newsweek running with it, making a case that actually makes all the sense in the world:

"Bringing back Verdugo to the Bronx would be a win-win for the Yankees. This is a team that never officially replaced Juan Soto and could benefit from a player who brings some spark to the lineup. It would also allow the organization to rotate him into left field if the Yankees decide to roll the dice with Domínguez."

That’s exactly it. The Yankees never truly replaced Soto’s presence, and while Verdugo isn’t Soto (no one is), he’s still a reliable bat with defensive flexibility. His original market value was estimated at $60 million over four years, but with Opening Day fast approaching, that kind of deal seems unlikely.

Instead, the Yankees could probably land Verdugo on a one-year, $9 million contract—a perfect low-risk, high-reward move. That's a Newsweek idea and I love it. It fills an immediate need while giving Verdugo the chance to bet on himself before hitting free agency again in 2026. And even if Stanton makes a swift return, there’s no harm in having a quality depth piece ready to go.

Every player has slumps, every player has down years. But Verdugo has been clear—he’s looking for a short-term deal and a shot to rebuild his value. Given his familiarity with the Yankees and his ability to contribute right away, this move just makes too much sense.

Now, the only question is: Will the Yankees pull the trigger, and will it come in the dead of night when no one's paying attention?

JD MARTINEZ CHATTER GETTING LOUDER

 As the Yankees head into spring, injuries are already raising questions about their roster. The biggest concern remains Giancarlo Stanton, while the team awaits further updates on Luis Gil and his shoulder tightness. In light of these issues, recent speculation suggests the Yankees may explore bringing in J.D. Martinez as a potential reinforcement, particularly with Stanton’s ongoing elbow problems.

Martinez, now 37, is coming off a respectable yet unspectacular season with the Mets. While no teams had been publicly linked to him, Jon Heyman of the New York Post reports that the Yankees have had "some contact" with Martinez’s representatives. Given Stanton’s uncertain status, it seems likely he will start the season on the injured list, allowing extra time for recovery and at-bats in extended Spring Training.

If a short-term deal can be struck, Martinez could be an intriguing option. However, the Yankees also have in-house alternatives—one being a familiar face in Anthony Rizzo. Utilizing Rizzo in a designated hitter role would eliminate the need for him to play defense, and while he’s a lefty, the primary goal here is power at the plate, isn't it? Another potential option is Alex Verdugo, who remains unsigned but has a proven ability to hit. Unlike Martinez, these alternatives would provide a younger and possibly more versatile solution.

Last season, Martinez batted .235 with 16 home runs over 495 plate appearances for the Mets—not terrible, but the question remains: How much would the Yankees be willing to pay for a temporary fix?

Empire Sports Media recently highlighted the similarities between Martinez and Stanton, describing them writing "aging right-handed sluggers in the final stages of their career, , J.D. Martinez and Giancarlo Stanton share a lot of similarities, and that both make this a seamless fit short-term and a terrible fit long-term. There’s no chance at this point of his career that J.D. Martinez could handle an outfield spot, nor will the Yankees task Giancarlo Stanton with reps in the outfield." While Martinez could serve as a short-term solution, his lack of defensive versatility and advancing age make him a less-than-ideal long-term fit. Similarly, the Yankees aren’t likely to give Stanton many outfield reps at this point in his career.

For now, the "Martinez to the Yankees" talk remains persistent, but whether it turns into a reality is yet to be seen. 

Stay tuned. It could get interesting.

THE MARTIAN JUST CHANGED HIS UNIFORM NUMBER!

I kind of love this story. 

The youth movement in the Bronx is alive and well, and the kids are doing it right! Jasson "The Martian" Domínguez, the Yankees’ electrifying young outfielder, is taking a step into the franchise’s rich history—one jersey number at a time. After rocking No. 89 for his first two seasons in the big leagues, Domínguez is making the switch to something with a little more legacy attached: No. 24.

Now, if you're a Yankees fan, you know exactly why this is significant. That number belonged to one of the smoothest second basemen to ever wear the pinstripes—Robinson Canó. The sweet lefty swing, the effortless style, the Gold Gloves—Canó made No. 24 iconic in the Bronx. So, for Domínguez, this isn't just about picking a new number; it's a tip of the cap to a fellow Dominican legend. And we love to see it.

Of course, let’s just hope that’s all he takes from Canó—because while Robbie’s bat was magic, his hustle down the first-base line… well, let’s just say it had room for improvement. (I kid, I kid… kind of.)

With Alex Verdugo leaving town, the No. 24 was up for grabs, and Domínguez wasted no time swooping in. And honestly, it’s a perfect fit. The young phenom is set to be the Yankees' starting left fielder in 2025, and after his electric debut (before that pesky UCL injury), expectations are sky-high.

So, here’s to Jasson Domínguez, the new No. 24. If he brings even half of Canó’s smoothness and keeps up the hustle, Yankees fans are in for a treat.

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A PREDICTION ON WHERE VERDUGO WILL GO

Alex Verdugo’s time in the Bronx started off promising, but as the season wore on, things took a turn. While I appreciated the effort he put in, I never truly felt like he was a "Yankee"—much like Marcus Stroman. It’s unfortunate that things didn’t work out for him in New York, but he still has a future in the league and will need to find a new home in 2025.

Could the Houston Astros be the team to take a chance on him? Once regarded as a top outfield prospect, Verdugo is still just 28, and a fresh start might be exactly what he needs. Bleacher Report’s Kerry Miller projected that Houston could be his next destination, filling the void left by three-time All-Star Kyle Tucker.

"After initially playing well, Verdugo had a .585 OPS over his final 95 regular-season games played," Miller noted. "He still started in left field for each of the Yankees’ 14 postseason games, and he hit a home run in Game 2 of the World Series. Goodness knows the Astros could use a corner outfielder."

A one-year deal with Houston—or anywhere, really—could be a smart move, giving Verdugo a chance to prove himself and potentially earn a bigger contract after 2025. I genuinely believe his second-half struggles were just an extended slump, something even the best players go through. No matter where he ends up, I think he’ll bounce back and have a strong season. 

Wishing Dugie the best.

THE MARTIAN WILL GET HIS SHOT

Yankee fans everywhere are looking forward to seeing what Jasson Dominguez can do in his first full season the MLB.  We have talked about this a lot, but it looks like we are finally here.  Thank goodness. Jasson Domínguez’s MLB career has been more stop-and-go than full-speed ahead, but that might be about to change. The Yankees’ 21-year-old phenom—once hailed as the future of the franchise—is finally healthy and ready to make his mark.

Ever since signing a record-breaking $5.1 million deal out of the Dominican Republic as a 16-year-old in 2019, Domínguez has carried sky-high expectations. A switch-hitter with explosive power and elite athleticism, he’s the type of player who can transform a lineup. Now, there’s even talk of him taking over the leadoff spot—a clear sign that the Yankees believe in his potential.

Of course, his big-league debut in 2023 was a wild ride—four homers in eight games, including a jaw-dropping first at-bat blast off Justin Verlander. But just as quickly as his star was rising, disaster struck: a UCL tear ended his season before it really began. Instead of handing Domínguez a full-time role in 2024, the Yankees played it safe, trading for Alex Verdugo while shifting Aaron Judge to center and Juan Soto to right.

Domínguez worked his way back, finishing his rehab by June—only to get sidelined again with an oblique strain that delayed his return until late July. Meanwhile, Verdugo? Let’s just say that experiment flopped.

Now, finally, the Yankees have the guy they’ve been waiting for. No more waiting. No more stopgaps. 

It’s Jasson time.

TEAMS ARE CLOSING IN ON VERDUGO

Remember the spark Alex Verdugo brought to the Yankees early on? We all loved it! His energy was electric, the kind of vibe you wish you could bottle up. But let’s be honest, the flame kind of fizzled as the season went on... we all saw it live. Still, Verdugo remains a solid player with loads to prove. If you haven’t already, check out our piece I LOVE THE BALLS ON ALEX VERDUGO on Bleeding Yankee Blue. It's a must-read!

Now, here’s the juicy part: a couple of teams are really starting to sniff around Verdugo, eager to bring his spark to their roster.

The San Diego Padres are predicted to be in the mix for Verdugo. After a somewhat disappointing offseason, missing out on stars like Roki Sasaki and Tanner Scott (ouch), they’re keen to make some moves. Losing out to their NL West rivals, the Los Angeles Dodgers, stings a bit, doesn’t it? I still think the Dodgers did something shady. Maybe that's just me.

The Padres are in a bit of a belt-tightening phase, saying “no thanks” to Jurickson Profar. That leaves some space in their outfield, and Verdugo could be the perfect fit. An affordable left-handed bat? Yes, please!

But hold up—the Pirates might just be the best fit for Verdugo. Pittsburgh is brewing something interesting with Andrew McCutchen’s return, and Verdugo could be the cherry on top. He’s still young, has a decent postseason resume, and won’t break the bank. A one-year deal could be just what the Pirates need and exactly what Verdugo wants to prove his worth.

So, stay tuned—wherever Verdugo lands, he’s sure to bring the energy we all know and appreciate.

HERE COMES THE MARTIAN

The New York Yankees are finally giving Jasson Dominguez a well-deserved shot this year, and it’s a move that has fans buzzing with excitement. Dominguez, a 21-year-old outfielder with immense potential, is poised to bring a fresh spark to the Yankees’ lineup in 2025. With power from both sides of the plate, impressive bat speed, and a knack for making hard contact, Dominguez could become the X-factor the Yankees have been seeking. While there is still room for improvement on the defensive side, his offensive capabilities could make him a pivotal piece of the team’s success.

As Yankees fans, it can be frustrating to watch the organization tout their top prospects only to see them struggle to find playing time due to various reasons, often because of the logjam created by signing big-name players. This pattern has made it difficult for young talents to break through. However, Aaron Judge has been a notable exception, emerging as a superstar despite these challenges. Now, with Dominguez in the spotlight, there is hope that he will also get the opportunity to shine.

Dominguez’s ability to get on base, combined with his power and speed, makes him an exciting option at the top of the order. He has shown glimpses of his potential, including drawing walks and showcasing raw power. If he can find consistency, Dominguez could become the table-setter the Yankees have long been searching for. As a switch-hitter with an uppercut swing, he’s perfectly suited to take advantage of Yankee Stadium’s short right-field porch while maintaining the power to hit home runs to all fields. His raw power is a significant upgrade over Alex Verdugo, the player he is set to replace in center field.

While Dominguez still needs to improve his defense, the Yankees would be wise to focus on his offensive potential. There have been many players in baseball history who were not elite defenders but excelled at the plate and earned their place in the Hall of Fame. Fans are eager to see Dominguez unleash his power and bring excitement to the game. Letting him play and develop his skills on the field could pay off tremendously.

Looking ahead, there is hope for Dominguez to get regular playing time and even and eventually Spencer Jones, another promising prospect in the Yankees' system. The future appears bright for these young talents, and fans are optimistic about what they can achieve. For now, though, the focus is on Jasson Dominguez, who is finally getting his shot to make an impact. It’s time to let him fly and see what he can do. Fans are ready, and the Yankees should be too.