NESTOR'S NEXT SHOT & CASHMAN’S MESS LIVES ON

Nestor Cortes is getting another shot, and good for him.

The former Yankee lefty has agreed to a major-league deal with the Phillies as he works his way back from surgery for a torn biceps tendon. Cortes hasn't pitched in the majors in 2026, but Philadelphia apparently believes there might still be something left in that funky delivery.

I always liked Nestor. He was a good Yankee. He competed, embraced New York and became an All-Star in 2022. He wasn't Gerrit Cole, but he gave the Yankees some damn good baseball.

And every time I hear his name, I think about that trade.

On December 13, 2024, the Yankees shipped Cortes, Caleb Durbin and cash considerations to Milwaukee for Devin Williams. Williams sucked and was headed for free agency after the 2025 season, meaning the Yankees essentially surrendered all of that for one year of him.

And what a year it was.

Meanwhile, Durbin played great with the Brewers and eventually wound up with the Red Sox, where he's hitting around .258 with 12 homers, 62 RBIs and 16 stolen bases this season. Just last week, he had a three-hit, five-RBI game that included a grand slam.

So, here's my question: could Caleb Durbin have been our second baseman instead of the drama with Torres and then getting Jazz? Um Yes. It have been nice to find out.

Instead, the Yankees gave away a useful young infielder and a pitcher we actually liked for one disappointing season of Devin Williams. Williams is now across town with the Mets, Durbin is helping the Red Sox, and the Yankees are still searching for answers while struggling to score runs.

And yes, instead we get the Jazz Chisholm show. Talented? Absolutely. But the showboating annoys the crap out of me, especially when this offense can't consistently push runs across the plate.

I'm happy for Nestor. I hope he gets healthy and does well in Philadelphia.

But that trade? It was just annoying.

CUBS MAY BE IN ON WILLIAMS & I'M GOOD WITH THAT

I’ll be honest: Devin Williams to the Yankees always felt like inviting a raccoon into your kitchen because “maybe it’ll cook.” Unnecessary chaos. A vibes sinkhole. A self-inflicted wound we absolutely did not need going into 2025.

The Yankees would have been perfectly fine rolling with the bullpen they had and making adjustments on the fly—shocking concept, I know. Instead, Brian Cashman decided to get cute and shipped off Caleb Durbin, a major-league-ready infielder who could’ve actually helped the Yankees in the spot they desperately needed help. And what did we get? A season of infield musical chairs, a bullpen that felt like a panic attack in real time, and Devin Williams… existing.

Honestly, I didn’t want him here. Still don’t.

But—maybe—the winds are shifting. The Athletic says the Cubs are rethinking how they build bullpens this winter, which is a polite way of saying: “We realized one-year deals for relievers is the baseball equivalent of duct-taping a broken chair.” They might even commit to multi-year deals for the right late-inning arms. No, not Edwin Díaz money, but real investment.

Naturally, Devin Williams—Counsell’s old Brewers closer—is on their radar, and apparently drawing enough interest that his next contract might stretch beyond what the Cubs are even comfortable with. They’re also sniffing around Pete Fairbanks. In other words: Chicago might actually give Counsell options instead of prayer candles.

So… what does that mean for the Yankees?

Simple: if Devin Williams packs up his changeup and leaves the Bronx, I will personally throw a parade. Streamers, confetti, the whole thing.

And let’s not pretend this saga hasn’t been a mess. Williams went through a full-blown confidence crisis this season and admitted it out loud after coughing up a loss to the Astros: “I stink right now.” He said he hasn’t felt like himself, hasn’t found his groove since Tommy John, and is basically fighting ghosts out there. This is not the energy you want anchoring your bullpen.

He’s a free agent after 2025, and of course Brian Cashman—king of familiarity hires and emperor of the “easy way out”—might try to bring him back. Why? Because it’s simple. Comfortable. Familiar. It’s classic Cashman: miss the big picture entirely, then pretend he’s playing 4-D chess while the rest of us are watching him knock over his own pieces.

Letting Williams walk would be the smartest thing the Yankees could do. His shaky performances made the bullpen wobbly, his beard policy drama created noise for no reason, and the whole thing even threw Luke Weaver out of sync. Domino effect chaos.

And sure, the Mets, Cubs, Dodgers, and Giants are reportedly interested in Williams. He’ll get his market. Some team will gamble on a bounce-back. Good for them.

Me? I’m praying the Yankees sleep through the entire bidding process. If Craig Counsell truly feels comfy cozy with Williams, then by all means—Chicago, come get your guy.

One less bullpen headache in the Bronx? Yes, please.

CALEB DURBIN IS IN THE NLCS GUYS

It’s almost hilarious — if you can stomach the pain — how the Yankees spent an entire season scrambling for a third baseman when the solution was sitting right in their own farm system. All they had to do was believe in Caleb Durbin the way they believed in Anthony Volpe. Instead, Brian Cashman — the self-proclaimed architect of modern mediocrity — shipped Durbin off to Milwaukee for a closer the Yankees didn’t even need. Devin Williams was supposed to “lock down” the ninth inning. Instead, he wasn't good.

Back in December, New York sent Nestor Cortes, Durbin, and some cash to Milwaukee for Williams. It was hailed as a “win-now” move — classic Cashman buzzwords for short-term panic disguised as strategy. In reality, the Yankees traded away a contact-hitting, glove-first infielder for a relief arm who couldn’t handle Yankee Stadium pressure. It’s the kind of move that defines Cashman’s reign: impulsive, short-sighted, and allergic to player development.

Durbin didn’t just prove New York wrong — he embarrassed them. Milwaukee simply believed in Durbin and handed Durbin the keys and watched him flourish. By midsummer, Cashman had to call the Rockies and overpay for Ryan McMahon just to stop the bleeding. Translation: the Yankees traded away a cheap, controllable third baseman, then had to buy one back who, also was not good. That’s not baseball IQ — that’s front-office malpractice.

Meanwhile, Durbin’s rookie season spoke for itself: a .256/.337/.402 slash line, 11 home runs, 53 RBIs, and steady defense that gave Milwaukee’s infield life. A walk-off homer in May turned him from promising prospect to clutch performer, and he hasn’t looked back since.

The irony? While Durbin plays in the NLCS, Cashman’s Yankees are at home wondering how they managed to get fleeced again. Every time this front office makes a deal, it feels like they’re chasing ghosts of the 2009 team instead of building something real.

So, here’s the truth: Milwaukee believed in player development. Cashman believed in another quick fix. Now the Brewers might win a World Series, and the Yankees are left with empty analytics spreadsheets and another October spent in silence.

Brian Cashman didn’t just lose a trade — he lost the plot.

AROLDIS CHAPMAN IS JUST ANOTHER EXAMPLE OF THE YANKS GIVING UP ON THEIR GUYS

I keep coming back to one question: why did the Yankees give up on Aroldis Chapman so fast? Sure, the guy had his rough stretches in pinstripes, but let’s not kid ourselves—Chapman was a force. A tough competitor, a fireballer with a presence few relievers in baseball history could match. Not a Devin Williams, not a David Bednar—Chapman was better. And yet, the Yankees couldn’t wait to show him the door.

Yes, there was the 2016 suspension, a messy chapter in his career. A girlfriend accused him of choking her and firing off shots in his garage. Prosecutors dropped the charges for lack of evidence, though Chapman admitted to the gunfire (which, let’s face it, was reckless but not exactly the same as the headline-grabbing allegations). MLB still dropped the hammer with a suspension—more about Rob Manfred flexing faux authority than proven wrongdoing. That was the start of the Yankees distancing themselves. They didn’t want to deal with the bad PR, so they quietly framed him as a headache and moved on.

And yet, George Steinbrenner once made second chances a cornerstone of his Yankees. Doc Gooden. Darryl Strawberry. Guys with real demons, who George embraced and who rewarded him with production and redemption arcs. Chapman and Hal Steinbrenner? Chapman didn’t get the same grace. Instead, the Yankees basically shrugged and said, “Go scratch.” Eventually, Chapman felt disrespected, and the marriage fell apart.

Now? The guy’s still shoving 100 MPH fastballs past hitters. He’s bounced around—won a title with Texas, now thriving with Boston of all teams. The Red Sox signed him, liked what they saw, and just extended him. They’re paying him $13.3 million next year with an option for 2027. Meanwhile, Yankee fans are watching him close games at Fenway while our bullpen situation looks like a coin flip. That’s not irony—that’s organizational malpractice.

And here’s where it burns: this isn’t just about Chapman. This is a pattern. The Yankees always seem to cut bait too quickly. Caleb Durbin? Gone. Now thriving in Milwaukee in their infield. Gleyber Torres? He’s torching pitchers in Detroit while we cycled through second basemen like they were scratch-off lottery tickets. At third base, we finally land Ryan McMahon—.217 hitter, hardly terrifying. And in the bullpen? Don’t get me started. They already had Luke Weaver proving himself, but Cashman couldn’t help himself—he had to overcomplicate things by bringing in Devin Williams, who has been, frankly, a disaster in pinstripes.

The truth is the Yankees operate from a place of confusion. They panic, they shuffle, they tinker, and they give up on their own too soon. Chapman is the poster child for this mess. The Red Sox gambled and are laughing their way to wins. The Yankees? They’re juggling four guys for the closer role and still can’t decide who should pitch the ninth. That’s not strategy—that’s indecision.

Yes, the Yankees are on a seven-game winning streak right now. That’s nice. But when October rolls around and the margins shrink, fans won’t forget how badly this team manages talent. And if the postseason ends early, maybe—just maybe—it’s time the Yankees give up on Brian Cashman and Aaron Boone the way they’ve been so quick to give up on everyone else.

Because let’s be clear: Aroldis Chapman is still out there blowing hitters away. The Yankees are still out there pretending like they’ve got a plan. And us fans? We see right through it.

THREE YANKEE CLOSERS & AN ABSOLUTELY UNSERIOUS FRANCHISE

No one knows what the Yankees are doing. Let's keep it real, we had Luke Weaver as a top, reliable closer last season and he did the job wonderfully. No complaints from any of us, including the Yankees. Weaver was dominant.  And then, because of that, Brian Cashman did what he should have done. He went out and gave away a potentially elite infielder in Caleb Durbin for a closer, because that didn't cause any problems for the Yankees this season, right? No wrong.  It's because of Brian Cashman that the Yankees were a mess in the infield at second base, and there was mass confusion between Luke Weaver and Devin Williams on who was the closer. No one could find consistency; confidence and it was a disaster. And now between those problems, Gerrit Cole and Clarke Schmidt dealing with Tommy John and Luis Gil still on hold, the Yankees did the right thing today. THEY TRADED FOR A CLOSER. By the way, this is all sarcasm. My head's gonna explode.

Like what kind of crack is Brian Cashman smoking right now, because this is a horrendous trade day for the Yankees.  

That's right, the New York Yankees are in the midst of acquiring Pirates close David Bednar, a name that not a single baseball insider had, because baseball insiders knew the Yankees didn't need a closer... until we did. Stupid. As we speak the Yankees and Pirates are reviewing the medical records of the players in the deal. Yankees are to give up catching prospects Rafael Flores and Edgleen Perez, along with outfield prospect Brian Sanchez. Never mind the fact that our future at catcher is .212 Austin Wells, his overall defensive performance as a catcher has been a point of contention. There are major concerns about his arm strength, ability to control the running game, and consistency behind the plate. Additionally, the demanding nature of the position, as it was reported recently suggests his body is taking a beating and it's impacting his hitting, or, at least that is what the Yankees want us to believe.  And so, he, why not give all the catchers away then? Makes sense right? 

Brian Cashman did not do what he said. He didn't go to town. Brian Cashman did not make the Yankees a contender.  Brian Cashman has figured out a way to mask this weird, broken-down team with a bunch of rentals from the Portland Mavericks.  A group of mediocre guys, he hopes can be great to get the Yankees a spot in the wild card, and the hope that the Yankees can win a championship back dooring it with a wild card spot. 

What happened to my Yankees? We are not a serious franchise.  And by the way, if I hear another report about how the Yankees were quote "trying to get Paul Skenes", I'm going to smash the screen. Because trying isn't getting him, and it didn't happen, so shut up.

NOT GIVING AWAY CALEB DURBIN WOULD HAVE FIXED THE YANKEES INFIELD

Here’s a painful little thought experiment for Yankee fans: what if Brian Cashman hadn’t shipped Caleb Durbin off in exchange for a closer the team didn’t even need? What if Devin Williams never put on pinstripes? What if the Yankees — radical idea incoming — actually addressed the part of their roster that needed fixing?

Not sure if you've noticed, but Caleb Durbin is thriving.

While the Yankees keep spinning its wheels trying to find someone to hold down third base without fumbling the bag, Caleb Durbin is over in Milwaukee quietly turning into the kind of infielder the Yankees dream about — solid, scrappy, and unbothered.

 

Durbin doesn’t make headlines. He just makes plays. He’s the type of player who grinds out at-bats, sprays the ball around the field, and runs like he’s trying to beat the MTA to the next stop. He had a moment earlier this year — remember May? Over a 10-game stretch, the guy hit .306, posted a .810 OPS, added five extra-base hits, knocked in eight runs, and stole three bags like it was nothing. High motor. High IQ. Low maintenance. And guess what? The breakout didn’t stop there. Over 75 games this season, Durbin’s slashing .265 with five homers, a growing reputation for clutch hitting, and contact skills this Yankees lineup would kill for. His July? A meaty .533 slugging percentage. With runners in scoring position? He’s posting an OPS of .843. Meanwhile, Yankee fans are still trying to figure out if their current third baseman even remembers how to square up a fastball.

And we haven’t even talked defense. Durbin has six defensive runs saved and an “Outs Above Average” metric that says: this guy belongs. At third base. Where the Yankees — if you haven’t noticed — are still desperately rotating bodies like it's spring training.

So here’s the frustration: Cashman didn’t need a closer. He needed an infielder. The bullpen wasn’t broken. The infield? That’s been a patch job since Opening Day. Devin Williams may very well be elite again down the stretch, but he didn’t fix anything the Yankees couldn’t have managed internally. Meanwhile, Durbin would’ve actually solved a glaring issue.

And now, here comes the next curveball — rumors that Spencer Jones might be dangled to fix the same infield problem we could’ve solved by… not giving up Caleb Durbin in the first place. That’s galaxy-brain stuff. And not in a good way.

Let’s be clear — this isn’t a “fire Cashman” rant (yet). It’s just a plea for logic. The Yankees keep chasing shiny toys while neglecting basic needs. And those basic needs, like infield stability, are still biting them months later.

So no, I’m not saying I wish we never traded Caleb Durbin. I’m saying I wish Brian Cashman could recognize when he already had the solution in-house — before giving it away for something he didn’t actually need.

Because now, the Yankees are still hunting for an answer… and Caleb Durbin is over in Milwaukee looking like the answer they never realized they had.

THE RETURN OF VELAZQUEZ!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Let’s go! 

SHOCK & GRATITUDE IN THAT DEVIN WILLIAMS - NESTOR CORTES TRADE

A true Bronx tale. 

Every day you see Yankee fans holding back tears for a pitcher sporting a glorious mustache, but Nestor Cortes wasn’t just any pitcher. I'm being dramatic, but you know what I mean. We like our guys.

He was our Nasty Nestor—a crafty lefty, a clubhouse sparkplug, and a guy who made a city of 8.5 million believe in baseball magic again. So, when the Yankees pulled off a blockbuster trade with the Brewers last Friday, swapping Cortes and infield prospect Caleb Durbin for the electric Devin Williams, it hit different, but good for everyone.

The trade was the baseball equivalent of a shocking plot twist. For weeks, the Dodgers were the rumored frontrunners to land Williams, Milwaukee’s two-time All-Star closer whose "airbender" changeup belongs in a Smithsonian exhibit. Even Williams himself thought Hollywood was calling.

“I kinda thought I’d be going to L.A.; that’s what I was being told,” Williams admitted during his introductory press conference on Tuesday. “The Yankees snuck in there under the table and got the deal done.”

The Yankees, sneaky? Who knew? Love it though.

While Williams was left marveling at the Yankees’ last-minute chess move, fans in The Bronx were processing the reality of saying goodbye to Cortes.  Drafted by the team in the 36th round in 2013, Cortes left for the Orioles, returned, left again for Seattle, and then came back—like a pitcher in a rom-com who couldn’t quit New York. It was his second return in 2021 that truly cemented his legacy.

By 2022, Cortes had blossomed into an All-Star, baffling hitters with a mix of funky deliveries, pinpoint precision, and pure moxie. The fans loved him. The city loved him. And most importantly, Cortes loved them back.

“Seems like I’ve written this too many times about NY,” Cortes wrote in a heartfelt social media post after the trade, accompanied by photos from his Yankees tenure. “But I’m always grateful and proud of being groomed by the Yankee organization. A city full of life and tremendous support from the fans. Where us as players leave everything out on the field regardless of the outcome because the city is breathing and living by every win. With such a unique journey.”

Unique, indeed. How many other pitchers have pitched a full game with one pant leg rolled up because it was just too hot out?

For fans, the sting of losing Cortes was softened by what they were gaining. Williams is no slouch. A former NL Rookie of the Year, two-time All-Star, and two-time NL Reliever of the Year, he’s a flamethrower who makes opposing hitters look like they’ve wandered into a magic show. His airbender changeup is one of the nastiest pitches in baseball—a pitch so absurd that even seasoned batters swing at it like they’re trying to swat a mosquito.

And Williams is already embracing the pinstripes. “It’s a tremendous honor,” he said. “This is the Yankees. This is baseball’s biggest stage. I’m ready to get to work.”

While the trade makes sense on paper—New York needed bullpen reinforcements, Milwaukee wanted a proven starter and an infield prospect—baseball trades are never just business. They’re personal. For Yankee fans, losing Cortes isn’t just about the numbers; it’s about the memories. It’s about his quirky personality, his fearless pitching, and the way he made you believe that baseball could still be fun.

As for Cortes, don’t expect him to disappear from the hearts of Yankee fans anytime soon. This is the city that adores its players, even when they’re wearing another team’s uniform. And knowing Cortes, he’ll probably tip his cap with that signature grin the next time he pitches at Yankee Stadium, even if it’s for the Brewers.

In the meantime, the Yankees have Devin Williams, and he’s ready to deliver. Cortes may have left the Bronx, but he leaves behind a legacy of grit, smiles, and funky deliveries that will never fade.

And hey, baseball is unpredictable. Who’s to say Cortes doesn’t find his way back to New York for a fourth stint? After all, some love stories never really end.

STEINBRENNER'S SPENDING SO YANKEE FANS CAN BE PROUD ONCE AGAIN!

Steinbrenner's spending, Cashman's trading and things are happening.

The Yankees just pulled off a blockbuster, landing star closer Devin Williams from the Brewers, and let me tell you—we couldn’t be more excited. Williams isn’t just any reliever; he’s the reliever. With a dazzling 1.83 career ERA, 68 saves, and a changeup that makes hitters look foolish, Williams brings instant dominance to the Yankees’ bullpen. This is the kind of move that screams, “We’re chasing a championship!”

But let’s not overlook a potential challenge here. Can Williams handle the pressure of a big market? Serious question. A buddy of mine out in Milwaukee raised a good point: “What happens now that he’s on a big stage like in the Bronx? It’s going to be interesting.” He’s not wrong. The Bronx is a pressure cooker. Williams has been lights-out in Milwaukee, but pitching under the bright lights of Yankee Stadium, with the weight of a championship-hungry fanbase? That’s a whole different ballgame. Can Williams handle the pressure when it’s do-or-die in October? We believe in his talent, but it’s definitely something to keep an eye on. That being said, I'll take that chance, I love this move.

Now, let’s take a moment to tip our caps to Nestor Cortes. This one stings. Nestor’s been a warrior for the Yankees—a fan favorite with his funky windup, gritty performances, and big-game mentality. He’s given us so many memorable moments, and it’s tough to see him go. But as much as we love him, it feels like the right time. Nestor, you’ll always have a special place in Yankee hearts. Much respect, and good luck in Milwaukee.

The Brewers are getting a solid arm in Cortes, who’s been a dependable mid-rotation starter with a 3.33 ERA since his breakout in 2021. Pairing him with Freddy Peralta and Brandon Woodruff gives Milwaukee a strong rotation for their own playoff push. Meanwhile, the Yankees add even more firepower to a bullpen that’s already one of the league’s best.

Let’s not forget the other parts of this trade. Caleb Durbin is an intriguing infield prospect with speed, versatility, and an eye for the strike zone. His .269/.374/.407 slash line and 110 stolen bases in the minors show the potential for him to be a future contributor. And while $2 million in cash sweetened the deal for Milwaukee, make no mistake—this trade is all about Williams.

One ripple effect to watch: Luke Weaver’s role. Williams’ arrival likely shifts Weaver back into a setup role, which might feel unfair given how solid he’s been. But this is the Yankees, and fairness takes a backseat to winning. With Williams in the ninth, the Yankees are making it clear they’re all-in for a deep postseason run.

This trade is bittersweet, no doubt. We’re saying goodbye to a beloved Yankee in Nestor Cortes, but we’re gaining one of the game’s elite relievers in Devin Williams. The excitement is real, but so are the stakes. Welcome to the Bronx, Devin. The pressure’s on—let’s see what you’ve got.

THAIRO ESTRADA COULD BE BACK IN THE BRONX!

According to Mark Feinsand, the Yankees are considering a reunion with Thairo Estrada, a player with history in pinstripes who could provide affordable depth and competition at second base. Estrada, who was with the Yankees from 2019 to 2020, has spent the past few years showcasing his skills with the San Francisco Giants before hitting free agency this offseason.

Estrada's time in the Bronx was brief, and he never managed to secure a starting role. Quite honestly, he had no shot. The Yankees traded him to San Francisco in 2021, where he finally found his stride. With the Giants, Estrada blossomed into a versatile defender with surprising speed and sneaky power, tallying 15-homer potential and 20-steal capability during his best seasons. Even though his 2024 campaign was underwhelming (.217/.247/.343 with nine homers in 96 games), the 28-year-old's track record suggests he can still be a valuable piece for a team in need of a second baseman.

Estrada checks several boxes for New York:

1. Familiarity with the Organization: Having come up through the Yankees system, Estrada knows the team’s culture and expectations. He wouldn’t require a steep learning curve to adjust to the Bronx spotlight.
2. Affordability: Estrada isn’t expected to command a hefty contract, making him an appealing option for a team looking to address multiple offseason needs without breaking the bank.
3. MLB Experience: Unlike unproven prospects, Estrada brings some big-league experience and versatility, offering a dependable floor at second base.

With Gleyber Torres gone, the Yankees are exploring all options to fill the keystone position. Prospect Caleb Durbin is likely to compete for the spot, but Estrada’s versatility and experience could make him a favorite to secure the role if a high-profile star isn’t brought in and if Estrada becomes a Yankee again.

While Estrada’s most recent stats don’t leap off the page, his 2022 and 2023 performances—where he was an above-average hitter—prove his potential. Most importantly, he’s a low-risk option for a team that needs flexibility in my opinion.

In a game where bargains can turn into game-changers and as you know the Yankees love to do that, Estrada might just be the perfect fit to bring back to the Bronx.

THAT NICO HOERNER RUMOR IS BUBBLING

Here’s the latest juicy rumor from the Bronx soap opera: Gleyber Torres won't be asked back by the Yankees and perhaps allowing them to find an "upgrade"  Top prospect Caleb Durbin is coming, but in the meantime, trade whispers about Nico Hoerner are in the cold Bronx air... or something like that. But before we start planning the Gleyber farewell tour, can we pause and ask—are these rumors even legit anymore, or are we just bored?

Look, I get it—Gleyber can be maddening. And I'm gonna say it, I do not want Gleyber to leave. But yes, one day he’s hitting bombs, the next he’s forgetting how to run the bases. It’s a ride, for sure. But hear me out: Gleyber is still the guy the Yankees should keep in my opinion. Yes, he has his flaws, but so does your favorite coffee order, and you’re not replacing that. Think about it.

Now, let’s dissect the alternatives. Caleb Durbin? Love the kid’s energy, love the speed, love the glove. But trusting an untested rookie with second base during a season with World Series expectations feels like walking a tightrope in flip-flops. Bold move.  Truth be told, I don't see the Yankees doing this. Reports are he's 2 years away... so he's out for now I suppose.

And then there’s Nico Hoerner, the flavor of the week, or should I say the hour. Solid player—gets on base, runs like the wind, and has a nifty glove. But let’s be honest: Nico’s not exactly setting the world on fire with his pop. He’s like a really nice Toyota Camry—reliable, but no one’s plastering his face on a billboard. And while he could be the bridge to Durbin, I’ve got news for you: Gleyber could have been that bridge too before Jack Curry burst my bubble (technically the Yankees did not wanting to bring him back). In my opinion Torres is proven, he’s got power when you need it, and he’s already here, just make a new deal with Mr. Torres already!

Every winter, it’s like we’re auditioning for Second Baseman Idol when it comes to the Yankees, but this year it's real. Gleyber won't be back, so the Yankees need a new second baseman. But I still like Torres. I know... this opinion is unpopular. What, you don't like it? Write your own blog then!

A SIGNING PREDICTION THAT CAME OUT OF NO-WHERE TO REPLACE GLEYBER TORRES

Let’s get one thing straight: Gleyber Torres belongs in New York. He’s the infield heartthrob we all deserve, and the idea of letting him go feels like breaking up with a soulmate because someone new joined your trivia team. This is a fun suggestion and all, but my actual suggestion is simple—don’t mess this up, Yankees. Re-sign Gleyber.

Now, MLB analyst Pat Ragazzo of Sports Illustrated has floated an intriguing little Plan B: Brendan Rodgers. Yep, the Rockies’ former third overall pick and Gold Glove winner is now a free agent because Colorado decided to let him walk (classic Rockies move).

Let’s break it down. Rodgers hit .267/.314/.407 last year with 13 home runs and 54 RBIs in 135 games. Decent numbers—solid, even—but nothing that screams “cornerstone of your franchise.” He’s more like the guy you call when your first-choice prom date already has a plus-one.

On the bright side, Rodgers brings elite defense to the table. His Gold Glove in 2022 means he can definitely vacuum up ground balls and turn slick double plays. If the Yankees want a dependable glove at second base while they wait for prospect Caleb Durbin to graduate from the minors, Rodgers might be their guy. But let’s be real: calling him a “stopgap” isn’t exactly a glowing endorsement. It’s like saying, “Sure, he’s fine—he’ll hold us over until the real deal shows up.” Harsh, but fair.

And hey, Rodgers is 28, so he’s in the golden window of baseball productivity. He’d likely slot in at the bottom of the lineup and bring some contact hitting, maybe even surprise us with a few clutch knocks. But is that what we’re settling for? This is New York. We don’t settle—we demand pizzazz, swagger, and a little drama. Rodgers? He’s dependable, but he’s also as exciting as plain oatmeal.

Ragazzo also teases a Jazz Chisholm Jr. scenario, suggesting the Yankees could shuffle him to the infield if Gleyber goes elsewhere. Jazz is amazing, no doubt, but do we really want to uproot him from the outfield where he’s currently shining like a Broadway marquee? Plus, moving him creates yet another “who plays third?” nightmare. It’s a logistical migraine.

Here’s the thing: Brendan Rodgers isn’t a bad idea. He’s just not the best idea. If the Yankees want to play it safe and pinch some pennies, sure, take a flyer on Rodgers. Sign him to a one-year deal, let him hold the fort for Caleb Durbin, and cross your fingers he hits better in pinstripes than he did in altitude. But this is Gleyber Torres we’re talking about—a fan favorite, a proven bat, and a guy who feels like he belongs in New York.

So please, Cashman, Hal, or whoever’s reading this, do the right thing: give Gleyber the contract he deserves. He’s not just a stopgap—he’s the guy you build around. And Brendan Rodgers? No hard feelings, buddy. Maybe Colorado will have second thoughts and bring you back. Or at least offer you free Coors Light for life.

YANKS MEDIA SWAYING FANS TOWARD DURBIN OVER GLEYBER & IT'S JUST NOT FAIR

If you’re a Yankees fan, you’ve undoubtedly heard the buzz around Gleyber Torres and his future with the team. Or perhaps you’ve been caught up in what seems like the Yankees' latest attempt to convince fans that Caleb Durbin is the next savior at second base. Is it just me, or is this like trying to convince everyone that sparkling water is better than soda—refreshing, maybe, but where’s the kick?

Let’s break down why Gleyber Torres is more important to the New York Yankees than any fall-league standout, no matter how many bases he steals. Torres, who just wrapped up a one-year, $14.2 million deal, has been the Yankees' steady and occasionally heroic second baseman, adding that much-needed offense to a lineup that sometimes swings like they’re facing ghost pitchers. In 2024, Torres hit .257 with 15 home runs and 63 RBIs—solid numbers for a team that occasionally made scoring runs look as challenging as solving a Rubik’s cube blindfolded. Over his MLB career, Torres has a .265 average with 138 home runs and 441 RBIs. Not exactly numbers you roll your eyes at, unless you’re one of those fans who think Derek Jeter should still be playing shortstop.

“I’ve played here since 2018. I’ve got family here,” Torres said when asked about his future. “I know everybody in the organization, but at the end of the day, it’s a business and I can’t control that. Let’s see what it’s gonna be the next few months.” Ah yes, the classic “It’s a business” line—the baseball equivalent of saying, “I’m about to be traded faster than you can say ‘luxury tax’.”

And shop around he might. Yankees GM Brian Cashman didn’t exactly sound like he was preparing to keep Torres’s locker warm. “I’m not gonna dissect what he’s good at and not as good at,” Cashman said, in a tone that’s supposed to sound noncommittal but comes off more like, “I’m already picturing him in another uniform.” But let’s get one thing straight—while the Yankees might flirt with other options, they’d be fools to ignore what Torres brings to the table. And when October comes around? Gleyber becomes the human embodiment of a magnet, finding his way to first base so often you’d think he was trying to claim squatters' rights.

Now, let’s talk Caleb Durbin, the 24-year-old who’s been hailed as the “Breakout Prospect of the Year” in the Arizona Fall League after stealing 29 bases in 24 games. Yes, you read that right—Durbin could probably steal a base in flip-flops. But here’s the kicker: Durbin isn’t even ranked in the Yankees’ top 30 prospects. So when Aaron Boone, the Yankees' resident cheerleader (and occasional strategy saboteur), says, “I think he’s a stud...he’ll play a big role for us this upcoming season,” you have to wonder if he’s just reciting from the team’s PR script. Boone’s endorsement, folks, is about as reassuring as using duct tape to fix a leaky boat.

Durbin’s stats—a .275 average with 10 home runs, 60 RBIs, and 31 stolen bases across Single-A, Double-A, and Triple-A—are solid, but let’s not start engraving his name on any trophies just yet. The Yankees’ attempt to sell fans on Durbin as the future feels like when your friend insists their new artisanal energy drink is going to change your life. Sure, there’s potential, but replacing a battle-tested player with flashes of postseason brilliance for an unproven speedster? Risky at best.

Torres, who’s soon to be 28, might look at a short-term deal in free agency, with MLBTradeRumors suggesting a two-year, $36 million contract. That’s pocket change compared to some deals we’ve seen. The Yankees should pounce on this opportunity. Why? Because Torres is that clutch, reliable snack in the pantry—you might take it for granted until it’s gone. Meanwhile, Durbin is like that new kale chip—interesting, trendy, but who knows if anyone will actually enjoy it in the long run?

So, Yankees fans, don’t be fooled by the flashy Fall League headlines. Caleb Durbin might be fast, but he has time. Plus, can he match Torres’ postseason heroics, leadership, and ability to get on base when it matters most? Until proven otherwise, Gleyber Torres is still the real deal, and the Yankees would do well not to let Boone, and his eternally stupid smile make fans believe otherwise.

LUCAS LUETGE GONZO!

Lucas Luetge is no longer a New York Yankee. It will take some time into the season to see if this one will sting a bit or not. Luetge was good for the Yankees.  But the Yankees are betting that the rotation and the already solid bullpen will allow them to cut one loose, and that "one" is Luetge.

SB Nation writes:

"The New York Yankees announced tonight that they traded reliever Lucas Luetge to the Atlanta Braves for minor leaguers Caleb Durbin and Indigo Diaz. The lefty was designated for assignment a week ago when they signed reliever Tommy Kahnle....

Durbin is a 5-foot-8 right-handed infielder who was picked in the 14th round by the Braves in the 2021 MLB Draft. He played second base for 32 games in High-A after being recalled from Middle-A. The 22-year-old slashed .220/.306/.330 with a wRC+ of 79....

Diaz was selected in the 27th round of the 2019 MLB Draft... In 2022, he was a 24-year-old righty reliever pitching in Double-A and had an ERA of 3.08 with a FIP of 4.27 and an xFIP of 5.37. Diaz fanned 63 batters in 49.2 innings."

Building up that minor league system is vital and I like these moves that we're making alot.