JUDGE WAKES UP & THE YANKEES ARE STILL ALIVE!

Set the pigeons free! The Yankees finally made some magic happen. I guess it's just like they say...it's better late than never? We live to see another day. A day....but I'm praying to the baseball gods that is turns into more than just one day.

We've played three games in the ALDS and we witnessed terrible starting pitching in ALL of them. I thought Max Fried was bad on Sunday but Carlos Rodon was a disaster! It looked bleak after he allowed 6 runs after 2 2/3 innings. It looked like winter was starting early....until the Yankees were given a gift.

Thankfully, Shane Bieber had a rough night also. He had a short appearance too, he was removed in the third inning after allowing three runs on five hits, one walk, and two strikeouts. He struggled against the Yankees top of the order, giving up back-to-back doubles in the second inning and being pulled with the Blue Jays up 6-3. The Blue Jays thought he would be an advantage for them. He has experience pitching at Yankee stadium, so the Blue Jays hoped he could put an end to the series. His elevated pitches did him in and the Yankees clearly read him well. They had some hard hit balls against him.

Then finally, Aaron Judge had his huge playoff moment that the Yankees (and all of us!) have been waiting for. He ran into a 99.7 mph fastball for a three-run homer off the left-field foul pole to tie the game at six. After that, everything seemed to fall into place as the Yankees stayed hot and the Blue Jays crumbled under bad defense.

Last night, the Blue Jays looked like the 2024 Yankees. Former Yankee Isiah Kiner-Falefa started the trend in the bottom of the first, booting a ground ball at second base. It helped the Yankees score a run. In the fourth inning, Blue Jays third baseman Addison Barger, missed a routine fly ball from Austin Wells with one out and nobody on. Barger was a pinch-hitter in the game and I thank the Blue Jays so much. Without his addition in the game, two batters later we may not have seen a Judge home run. The mistakes didn't end there. In the sixth inning, Anthony Santander couldn't catch a line drive from Cody Bellinger and gave the Yankees a double and an eventual run from the Yankees to pad their lead to 9-6.

This feels good now, but the Yankees can't celebrate this today. The Blue Jays are a good defensive team. What we saw last night is not typical and we can't rely on a sloppy game from them again. We need to swing the bats, move runners, play strong defense and PLEASE.....have a good start from Cam Schlittler.

The Blue Jays are approaching today as a bullpen game, but we have Schlittler! It's a lot of pressure for him, especially after what he just did against the Red Sox. 

We CAN tie this up today....I'm crossing every possible body part I can and praying to the baseball gods. Please Schlitt....keep us alive!

--Jeana Bellezza-Ochoa

BYB Senior Managing Editor
Twitter: @nyprincessj

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CONTRACT OFFER MADE TO ANTHONY SANTANDER

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

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

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

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

THE MARTIAN IS OUR YANKEE FUTURE

I don't know about you, but I feel as though the Yankees don't need an Anthony Santander. We have Jasson Dominguez.

Yankees fans, the countdown to greatness has begun, and at the center of it all is a 21-year-old phenom who’s ready to rewrite the script: Jasson Dominguez. Dubbed “The Martian” for his otherworldly talent, Dominguez isn’t just a prospect—he’s the future of the Bronx Bombers. It’s time to unlock his full potential and let this untapped superstar shine.

Dominguez has already teased us with glimpses of his brilliance. In his 2023 September call-up, he smashed four home runs in just eight games. That’s not just a flash in the pan—that’s raw, uncontainable talent begging to be unleashed. Unfortunately, a freak elbow injury halted what could’ve been a meteoric rise. But make no mistake: the injury didn’t dampen his abilities or his hunger. If anything, it only delayed the inevitable.

What makes Dominguez so special? Let’s start with his bat. As a switch-hitter with both power and discipline, he’s a weapon at every spot in the lineup. His swing is electric, his eye for the zone is mature beyond his years, and his potential to deliver clutch hits undeniable. The Yankees have been craving a consistent offensive force, and Dominguez fits the bill. A rookie campaign with 20+ home runs? Absolutely within reach.

But it’s not just his offense that excites—it’s the full package. Dominguez is a physical specimen with blazing speed and freakish athleticism. While his defense in the outfield is still a work in progress, his natural instincts and relentless work ethic promise rapid improvement. Pair him with defensive stalwarts like Cody Bellinger and Aaron Judge, and you’ve got an outfield that’s built to dominate both at Yankee Stadium and beyond. I really believe it. Even Brian Cashman himself said it best: “I’d like to see him get his shot now.” The Martian isn’t just knocking on the door of the big leagues—he’s ready to kick it down.

I really hope 2025 is shaping up to be Dominguez’s coming-out party, and the Yankees need to let him soar. His talent is undeniable. For me, Jasson Dominguez isn’t just another player—he’s a game-changer, a franchise cornerstone, and the kind of talent that doesn’t come around often. Let’s unleash him and watch as he leads the Bronx Bombers into a new era of dominance. 

THAT TEOSCAR HERNANDEZ RUMOR THAT WON'T GO AWAY

Guess who's making the rounds in the MLB rumor mill again? Yep, Teoscar Hernández. And if this feels like déjà vu, it’s because Bleeding Yankee Blue called it weeks ago, read TEOSCAR HERNANDEZ: A TERRIFIC PLAN B. Now, the chatter is louder than ever, with Bleacher Report’s Julia Stumbaugh adding fuel to the fire.

According to Stumbaugh, Hernández might not be heading back to the Dodgers, as many assumed. The reason? Some heavy hitters are entering the fray, including the Philadelphia Phillies, New York Yankees, and Cincinnati Reds. Yes, folks, the Yankees are apparently sniffing around, and honestly, this rumor has legs.

Let’s break it down. Right now, the Yankees' outfield looks like this: Jasson Dominguez, Aaron Judge, and Cody Bellinger. Sounds solid, right? Well, hold up. While Dominguez is hyped to the moon (and us Yankee fans are here for it), he’s still an unproven commodity in the big leagues. Adding Hernández to the mix would bring a steady, proven bat and glove—something the Yankees could really use instead of banking on Dominguez’s potential alone.

But hey, I get it. Yankee fans have been salivating over Dominguez for what feels like forever. The kid is the Martian, after all, and there’s a real thrill in watching homegrown talent thrive. Personally? I say give Dominguez his shot. But if the front office decides to play it safe with Hernández, I wouldn’t blame them either.

Now, here’s where it gets interesting. Hernández is reportedly looking for a three-year deal worth $66–$72 million, according to Ken Rosenthal. For context, Anthony Santander is out here asking for $100 million, which, let’s be real, feels like Monopoly money at this point.

The Yankees have a big decision to make. Do they roll the dice on Dominguez and hope the hype train stays on track? Or do they pony up for Hernández, a player who could immediately stabilize their outfield and add pop to the lineup?

One thing’s for sure: if this deal goes down it will be the most incredible Yankee off season since George Steinbrenner were alive.

THREE NAMES STILL CONNECTED TO THE YANKEES

If there’s one thing Yankees GM Brian Cashman knows how to do, it’s steal the spotlight during the offseason...especially this year. The man is cooking right now, making bold moves and keeping the Yankees firmly in the conversation for dominance in 2025. And guess what? He might not be done yet.

Anthony Santander

The Yankees have reportedly kept tabs on Anthony Santander, a 30-year-old switch-hitting outfielder with serious pop. Last season, Santander crushed 44 homers and drove in 102 RBIs for the Orioles, and while his .235 average might not dazzle, his power is undeniable. Sure, he’s a below-average defender, but Yankee Stadium’s short porch in right is practically built for his bat. Santander is looking for a five-year, $90 million deal, which might feel steep, but Cashman’s been known to work some magic.

The Yankees aren’t the only team eyeing Santander—divisional rivals like the Red Sox and Blue Jays are also sniffing around. But let’s be real: Wouldn’t it be poetic to steal one of Baltimore’s best sluggers?

And don’t sleep on Carlos Baerga’s take who is a former MLB player and now insider. He believes Santander and the Yankees are a perfect match, and he wouldn’t be surprised if a deal gets done soon.

Jurickson Profar

Meanwhile, Cashman isn’t putting all his eggs in one basket. The Yankees have also expressed interest in Jurickson Profar, who, at 31, is coming off an All-Star season. Profar hit .280 with 24 homers and 85 RBIs in 2024 while flashing solid defense in left field. 

Once hailed as the top prospect in baseball, Profar has had a rollercoaster career, but his resurgence last season makes him an appealing option for a Yankees squad looking to bolster their outfield.

Alex Verdugo

But wait, there’s more! NJ.com’s Randy Miller floated the idea of bringing back Alex Verdugo on a one-year deal. Verdugo, a Gold Glove finalist in 2024, would add defensive stability and a solid bat to the Yankees’ lineup. While he’s not the flashiest after last season, Verdugo’s versatility and postseason experience make him an intriguing short-term solution. Plus, he's a great teammate.

Adding a slugger like Santander, a versatile player like Profar, or even a defensive ace like Verdugo could put the team in prime position to dominate the AL East in 2025.

Whatever happens next, one thing is clear: Brian Cashman is running this offseason like a boss. Yankees fans, buckle up—this ride is just getting started.

MEDIA PUSHING SANTANDER, BUT YANKEE FANS WANT BELLINGER!

Anthony Santander’s name has been buzzing in Yankees rumors lately, and on paper, it’s easy to see why. The 30-year-old switch-hitter could be the perfect fit for the Bombers. He’s got a solid glove, knows the AL East inside and out after spending his entire career with the Orioles, and has the kind of power that makes bleacher fans bring their gloves—40-plus homer potential, baby! Oh, and did we mention he hit more home runs than Juan Soto last season? Both were All-Stars, both were Silver Slugger winners, but Santander comes without the Soto-sized price tag. If the Yankees pulled this off, it would make all kinds of baseball sense.

But let’s be honest: the Yankee Universe—and we diehard fans—are dreaming of someone else. Cody. Freaking. Bellinger.

The former MVP has it all: speed, defense, power, and the versatility to play center field or first base. He’s only 28, has a Gold Glove, two Silver Sluggers, and two All-Star nods to his name. Plus, he’s exactly the kind of high-energy, high-upside player Yankee fans love. Sure, his production dipped in 2024, but the potential for a bounce-back in pinstripes is too tantalizing to ignore.

So, what’s the holdup? Oh, you know, the usual: money. The Cubs, desperate to unload Bellinger but want a team to take on the $52.5 million left on his contract (including a $25 million opt-out for 2026). The Yankees, naturally, want Chicago to cover a chunk of that. Rumor has it, the two sides are about $10 million apart. And if that gap doesn’t close, the Yankees could dangle veteran DJ LeMahieu to sweeten the pot, per Cubbies Crib.

Meanwhile, Santander remains a very logical—and frankly, underrated—option. But logic doesn’t always win in the Bronx, where big names and big dreams reign supreme. Yankee fans don’t want “solid” or “sensible.” We want the guy with MVP hardware and highlight-reel potential. Plus, in reality, Santander is connected to the Blue Jays and Red Sox too.

So, while Santander-to-the-Yankees chatter grows louder, the fans are left asking: When’s Cody coming? I really want this dude.

Stay tuned, because this offseason soap opera is just getting started.

ALTERNATIVE TO SOTO? THE YANKEES HAVE ONE

The Yankees are in a familiar offseason dilemma: go all-in on a superstar like Juan Soto or make a smarter, more practical move with Anthony Santander. Soto is the flashy choice, no doubt—a generational talent who turns heads at the plate. But Santander? He’s no slouch, coming off a career-best season with 44 home runs and 102 RBIs. Plus, his switch-hitting power and defensive reliability make him an ideal fit for Yankee Stadium and its notorious short porch.

Here’s the kicker: Santander is also affordable. While Soto’s price tag will likely soar north of $500 million, Santander is projected to command a reasonable $19 million per year over five years. That leaves the Yankees room to address other glaring needs, rather than betting the farm on one player and crossing their fingers. 

Soto is incredible, sure, but he doesn’t pitch or play multiple positions, and the Yankees aren’t exactly flush with roster depth right now.

And let’s not ignore Santander’s proven durability and his comfort with the AL East grind. The guy’s spent years battling the Yankees, Red Sox, and Rays—he’s not going to wilt under the pressure of the Bronx spotlight. Soto? He’s a star, but he’s also coming with sky-high expectations, and anything short of perfection will have fans questioning the price tag.

The Yankees could wait on Soto’s decision, but that’s a dangerous game. Santander won’t stay on the market forever, and missing out on him to hold out for Soto could leave the Yankees empty-handed. They need impact players, not just marquee names, and Santander offers real value without the financial acrobatics Soto demands.

Sure, Soto is the dream scenario. But sometimes, dreams come with nightmarish costs. Santander, on the other hand, is the type of move that builds a well-rounded team—exactly what the Yankees need to get back to October baseball. Spending smarter, not flashier, could be the difference between competing and just making headlines.

What will happen next in this crazy Soto Sweepstakes! Stay tuned.

THE YANKEES ARE ENGAGED WITH TOP TIER TALENT!

It's REALLY early but for once, it's nice to hear some rumors about the Yankees talking to difference makers. I'm so tired of Brian Cashman shopping for bottom of the barrel guys in hopes of catching lightening in a bottle. It never works.

There are some eye-catching names that are available this winter. We all know everyone is checking in on Juan Soto, but there's other interesting names out there, which is what we all want to hear. I thought last year it was pretty uninteresting. Soto will be a nice catch for someone, but he isn't the only nice target out there.

So, the Yankees have to be smart about this. They can't stay hyper focused on Soto, we need a lot of upgrades. So, the Yankees are laying the groundwork, read more HERE. It's too early to get super excited about any leads yet but the Yankees are making calls, and a top end of the rotation starting pitcher appears to be on the wish list. If we could add a Corbin Burnes or Max Fried to the rotation, it makes the rotation deeper, allows us to stash Marcus Stroman in the bullpen and takes some pressure off of Gerrit Cole (he can't do EVERYTHING) and just fortifies this team.

There's also that Blake Snell rumor that just doesn't want to die and go away. It's back. I wish it would just disappear into outer space because I personally don't want Snell but, the Yankees have checked in as they have before. If nothing else, hopefully it drives up the price and maybe some other team pays through the nose for him!

The Yankees are thinking about more than just pitching, and they need to. We need help all along the infield and what if the Yankees can't get Soto back? They need another outfielder. The Yankees have checked in on Anthony Santander and Pete Alonso. I'm not gonna lie, secretly I would like to lure someone from the Mets to the Yankee dark side as I laugh at Steve Cohen, however I am not 100% sold on Alonso as our new first baseman. Santander on the other hand, love his switch-hitting abilities but he fits other Yankee traits: all or nothing with a low batting average, higher strikeouts with some pop and can help with some RBI's. I just don't want more of the same old fundamentally flawed Yankee lineup. Sounds just like more of Brian Cashman's existing failed strategy, so no wonder the Yankees are tied to him.

The Yankees have a lot of work to do. I'm anxious to see how this plays out, because Hal Steinbrenner says current payroll isn't sustainable. So, if he's serious it feels like another starter AND getting Soto back feels unlikely. We need help so....do better, Cashman. Make smart choices for once.

--Jeana Bellezza-Ochoa

BYB Senior Managing Editor

Twitter: @nyprincessj