ALL EYES ON SPENCER JONES!

I don't dabble on X much these days, but for some reason I decided to go on and just see what the latest buzz was, exactly. I really should've known better. It just frustrated me more than I already was which is saying a lot.

We all know Aaron Judge is on the shelf, and hopefully back in the lineup sooner rather than later. Losing Judge means the sky is falling basically....because it is. Judge is the only heartbeat on this team. So now what do we do? The trade deadline is Thursday. The Yankees could make another move, but if this is "only" going to be closer to a 10-day miss, a trade won't be for a Judge fill in.

The easy answer for most people has been Spencer Jones, but here is why I got frustrated by my X feed. So many "experts" weighing in with different takes. Everyone wants to know what is going to happen with Jones. Some will defend him and demand he stay. Any trade talk means they will chase you with a pitchfork and hunt you down. Then you have some people who are open to it IF the price is right. I'm in this camp.

Then you have "experts" posting all kinds of takes. Like Bob Nightengale, after scrolling all the way down on THIS article, you find the Yankees are "open" to trading Jones according to rival GM's. Gee, that is mind boggling. Player gets traded sometimes. Wow. The Yankees aren't against the idea of trading someone if the price is right. Such a huge breaking news headline, yet X was all in a tizzy.

Then there's Jon Heyman who goes from Jones not getting called up to, also not getting traded.

Then last but not least THIS feeding more flames into the "Will Jones or won't Jones" get called up?
I'm honestly just tired of seeing all of these headlines. I get it, but the Yankees are in a big enough jam as it is between Judge and massively underperforming, I just don't want to read more. No, I don't think Jones is going to get called up nor do I think he SHOULD. Yes, he is on a tear down in Triple-A and just had a three-homerun game.... blah blah blah but the kid just got there and has concerns. He has an UGLY strike-out rate and he needs to work on that before he can get called up to the show. He has potential, but he's not ready. He has a lot to do before he can convince me he is ready for the big leagues. We have a roster full of guys that strikeout like he does and can't put the ball in play and score runs OR practice fundamentals. 

If Jones WAS to get called up, the Yankees have a log jam as it is and he's not going to be playing every day. He needs to play every day. He doesn't need to be called up to sit on the bench and be cold. He's not ready. You don't get promoted in these circumstances, it's not good for him or the Yankees.

So if Jones stays so be it, let him play every day in the minors and continue to progress. Honestly though, if the Yankees can get a solid pitcher for him I won't be mad at it either. Can we just stop with the Jones is gonna get called up to replace Judge party? It's not time yet, and not in this chaos, please.

I need a break from X....

--Jeana Bellezza-Ochoa

BYB Senior Managing Editor

Twitter: @nyprincessj

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

--Jeana Bellezza-Ochoa

BYB Senior Managing Editor

Twitter: @nyprincessj

BELLINGER WILL BE A NEW YORK YANKEE...

That is my prediction folks. Yup, I'm being the "called it" guy. Why not, everyone else does!

Cody Bellinger’s name is lighting up the MLB rumor mill, and things are heating up fast. According to Jon Heyman—baseball’s gossip king—the Chicago Cubs are ready to sweeten the pot by absorbing a chunk of Bellinger’s contract to seal a trade because they just acquired Kyle Tucker. How much? Somewhere between $5 and $7 million, Heyman says. “I wouldn’t be surprised if a deal is finalized in the coming days,” he teased.

The Yankees are in the mix, but they’ve got competition. The Astros and Dodgers are also sniffing around the Cubs’ dynamic outfielder. Still, New York’s interest feels like a match made in baseball heaven—they’ve been eyeing Bellinger for years. With the Bombers scrambling to reload after losing Juan Soto, the timing couldn’t be better.

But here’s the kicker: the Yankees and Cubs are still hashing out the financials. Bellinger’s deal comes with two years and $52.5 million left, including a juicy $25 million opt-out for 2026. The Yankees are pushing for the Cubs to pick up more than $10 million of that tab, so the two sides aren’t quite seeing eye-to-eye… yet.

Let’s face it, though—Bellinger in pinstripes just makes sense. The Yankees need a left-handed bat in the outfield, and Bellinger’s versatility is a godsend. He’s a whiz in center field, giving Aaron Judge a breather in a less taxing spot, and he can moonlight at first base. Add in his MVP pedigree, two All-Star nods, and the fact that he’s still just 29, and you’ve got a guy who could supercharge this roster.

This move is a win-win. The Yankees get a leader who’s speedy, adaptable, and clutch in the field, while Bellinger gets a fresh stage to shine. Plus, he’s the kind of player who can cut through the lineup chaos and bring stability. Reports say progress between the Cubs and Yankees is further along than we might think—so buckle up, folks. This deal could be going, going, gone before we know it.

JIM DUQUETTE & JON HEYMAN HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY ABOUT THE YANKEES BIG OFFER TO SOTO

Jim Duquette, former MLB general manager and now a respected baseball analyst, weighed in on the Yankees' rumored $700 million offer for superstar Juan Soto. Speaking candidly about the potential blockbuster deal, Duquette remarked, "The fact that the Yankees are supposedly over $700 million, if that in fact is true, I think he's going to be a Yankee."

As a longtime admirer of Duquette’s insight, I find his confidence in the Yankees’ ability to land Soto both reassuring and intriguing. Duquette’s deep knowledge of baseball economics and team-building makes his take worth noting, especially as the Yankees seem determined to pair Soto’s talent with their already star-studded lineup.

But here’s the catch: while Yankees fans might be ready to pop champagne at the thought of Soto in pinstripes, there’s an elephant in the room—and it’s wearing a Mets cap. Enter Steve Cohen, the Mets' billionaire owner with pockets deeper than the Mariana Trench. If Cohen decides Soto fits his vision for the Mets, he could easily swoop in with an even more extravagant offer.

That’s the scary part. Cohen has shown he’s not afraid to outspend everyone to get what he wants. While the Yankees' legacy and Soto's potential appeal for playing in the Bronx are strong selling points, money talks—and Cohen can make it scream.

However, Jon Heyman says it best when he says the Yankees have a secret weapon in this derby: Aaron Judge. Soto might end up making double what Judge earns, but the Yankees’ captain has already made it clear he doesn’t care. From the start, Judge said he wouldn’t mind if Soto signed a bigger deal, and that kind of selflessness could play a huge role in luring Soto to New York.

Heyman says Soto reportedly loves the idea of having Judge hitting behind him in the lineup and views him as the ideal clubhouse leader. Soto may be the most talented young hitter in baseball, but even the brightest stars benefit from a steady presence like Judge—a leader who knows what it takes to win in the Bronx.

So, while I share Duquette’s optimism about the Yankees’ chances, we can’t ignore the lurking presence of the Mets’ owner. If this offseason has taught us anything, it’s that no deal is done until it’s done. But with Judge in the fold and the Yankees pulling out all the stops, that Mets bubble will not stop bubbling.

Stay Tuned.

A LESSON IN RESPECT: MCPHERSON, HEYMAN & THE LINE YOU DON'T CROSS

Keith, you have egg on your face. Own it.

In the world of sports journalism, integrity is not just a buzzword—it’s the foundation upon which reputations are built. When Keith McPherson of WFAN decided to take aim at Jon Heyman, even as a joke as he claims, it was not just a misguided attempt at humor; it was a glaring display of overstepping his bounds. It was public, it was live and Heyman has clout. McPherson does not.

Let’s get one thing straight: Jon Heyman has put in decades of hard work, navigating the challenges of the baseball industry with a dedication that commands respect. The man has been in the trenches for years, breaking countless stories, and while he’s not perfect (who is?), he’s earned his place among baseball’s most respected voices.

Yes, here at Bleeding Yankee Blue, we’ve taken our shots at Heyman. We’ve called him out for inaccuracies and held him accountable when he’s been wrong. The infamous “Arson Judge to the Giants” tweet from 2022? That was a misstep—a stain on his career that he fully owns. But even when we critique him, it’s done with the understanding that Heyman’s commitment to the game is unquestionable. We often make fun of Baseball insiders. Why? Because it's easy. We call it a guess, because when they're wrong, that's how it's perceived. But let me state for the record that we rarely give credit when they it right.  We will make sure we do more, based on this latest McPherson mess up.

But back to McPherson. He is a tiny fish in a very big pond, lacking the clout, experience, and standing to make jokes that question someone’s integrity, especially someone of Heyman’s stature. Even Bleeding Yankee Blue, a blog built on honesty and opinion, is bigger than McPherson. Learn some respect, Keith, because the truth is, the very people you’re joking about are the ones who inspired you to pursue this career in the first place. Remember?

The “Boras Corp” Fiasco

If you live under a rock, it all started during a segment where McPherson and Heyman were discussing Heyman’s story about the Mets signing former Yankees reliever Clay Holmes. McPherson decided to inject humor, making a quip about Heyman being part of Scott Boras’s “camp.”

“When I look at your tweets, and when I look at your history, I always say, ‘Okay, this guy is part of Boras Corp,’” McPherson joked.

He then asked Heyman, “What’s the percentage of the Juan Soto contract you’re going to get when you break the news on where he signs?”

This is where McPherson crossed the line. For a journalist like Heyman, integrity is everything. The insinuation that he might be working on behalf of a player agent like Boras—a clear conflict of interest—wasn’t just a bad joke; it was an attack on the very core of his professional identity.

Heyman’s frustration boiled over, and who could blame him? He snapped back, defending his body of work and expressing disbelief at McPherson’s audacity.

“I don’t need to break this [Soto] story. I’ve broken a lot of stories,” Heyman said. “I can’t believe you even said that. To question my integrity.”

Heyman went further, stating, “I know you’re not a journalist; you don’t know anything about this [reporting business].” He ended the call abruptly, shouting, “I can’t even believe it! I CAN’T EVEN BELIEVE IT!”

Jon Heyman's spot with Keith McPherson ends abruptly.

"I'm done with you and I'm done with WFAN. Goodbye. I can't even believe it. I can't even BELIEVE IT!" pic.twitter.com/vXohLeRo9G

— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) December 7, 2024

It was an epic meltdown—and not Heyman’s fault.

Keith McPherson is a rookie in this industry compared to Heyman. He hasn’t put in the years of work, nor does he have the track record to poke fun at someone like Heyman. The “Boras Corp” joke? It’s a cheap shot from someone who doesn’t understand the grind of reporting in the baseball world. Keith will say he does, but he doesn't.

Being a baseball insider is a relentless, thankless job. It requires building sources, verifying facts, and facing constant scrutiny. Heyman’s career is far from flawless, but his contributions to the game are undeniable. The “Arson Judge” mistake stings, sure, but it’s a footnote in a career defined by breaking major stories and delivering timely, accurate baseball news.

McPherson, on the other hand, has no such legacy. A few years on the air do not entitle him to take potshots at a veteran of Heyman’s caliber. If anything, McPherson should focus on building his credibility rather than tearing down someone who’s spent decades earning theirs. He blew it plain and simple.

If you've been reading us since the beginning, September 2010, you know that Bleeding Yankee Blue has always been about integrity in journalism. We’ve been around for 14 years, holding people accountable while respecting the hard work it takes to succeed in this industry. We’ve criticized Heyman when he’s been wrong, but we’ve never questioned his dedication to the game or his love for baseball.

McPherson’s antics were not only unprofessional but also indicative of a larger issue: the lack of respect for those who have paved the way. Joking about someone’s integrity, especially when you’re still climbing the ladder, is not just tone-deaf—it’s career suicide.

WFAN and McPherson should take this incident as a wake-up call. Whether it’s a fine, a reprimand, or outright removal from the airwaves, something needs to happen. Keith McPherson is not too big to fail. He’s a tiny fish in a massive pond, with a long way to go before he can sit at the table with the “big boys.”

Meanwhile, Heyman deserves acknowledgment for standing his ground. Mistakes and all, he’s a giant in the field, and his contributions to baseball journalism far outweigh a single typo. McPherson? Take notes and learn respect—because the guys around you built the path you’re trying to walk.  How quickly you and your big head forgot.  

You should call out sick today. You need to not speak for a bit.  That's my take.

3 BIG PITCHING TARGETS FOR THE YANKEES, BUT IT ALL DEPENDS ON SOTO

Ah, Jon Heyman. You gotta hand it to the guy—he makes you click. 

The man is a clickbait Picasso, spinning vague headlines and speculative rumors into must-click gold. Remember "Arson Judge"? The internet burned for days! Now he’s back, and this time it’s all about the Yankees, Juan Soto, and ace pitchers. Spoiler: nobody knows anything, but somehow, we’re still here.

So, according to Heyman—our modern-day Nostradamus of the hot stove—the Yankees have “checked in” on Max Fried, Corbin Burnes, and Blake Snell. Translation? Someone in the Yankees' front office probably Googled their Baseball Reference pages. But the big catch is this: whether the Yankees actually pursue one of these aces depends on if Soto re-signs. Yep, the entire pitching market apparently revolves around one guy. Classic Yankees drama.

Burnes is the top prize in my opinion, with projections putting his next contract north of $200 million. But wait—what if Max Fried, with his postseason pedigree and lefty magic, is actually the most sought-after arm? (Cue dramatic reality show music.) Fried isn't likely to touch Burnes' price tag, but he’s bringing serious heat on the market after declining the Braves’ qualifying offer. The Yankees, Giants, and Red Sox are all reportedly drooling over him.

Blake Snell? 

He’s just chilling, posting a solid 3.12 ERA, 145 strikeouts, and a 1.05 WHIP in 2024. He’s projected to get a modest (in MLB terms) five-year, $131 million deal, which makes him a relatively affordable Plan B. The Red Sox, despite having a respectable 2024 team ERA (because who doesn’t love a random stat drop?), might want to splurge. Beantown’s gotta keep up with the Yankees somehow, right?

Back to the Bronx, where Gerrit Cole’s triumphant return this year erased the immediate need for an ace. But let’s be honest: the Yankees collecting pitchers is like you collecting takeout menus. Do they need Fried, Burnes, or Snell? No. Do they want one? Absolutely. Picture Luis Gil, Carlos Rodón, Cole, and a shiny new toy like Fried—chef’s kiss. That’s rotation royalty.

But here’s the kicker: none of this happens unless Juan Soto decides he loves pinstripes enough to stay. If Soto bounces, the Yankees will pivot faster than a kid pretending they weren’t reaching for the last cookie. Suddenly, it’s all about pitching. Burnes! Snell! Fried! We’re signing them all! Or maybe just Googling their names again. Who knows...

And here’s the thing: you just read all of this, and I wrote it... all because of Jon Heyman. He’s the king of the vague-yet-enticing rumor mill. Is he often wrong? Oh, for sure. But he’s got us wrapped around his Twitter finger. Whether or not the Yankees pull off a blockbuster, one thing’s for sure: Jon Heyman is absolutely crushing his job. Now excuse me while I refresh his feed.

JON HEYMAN NEEDS TO SHUT HIS PIE HOLE

And I say that with love.

Jon Heyman is back at it, folks—taking swings, making predictions, and seeing what sticks. During a Wednesday Bleacher Report stream, the MLB insider declared that Juan Soto, the All-Star outfielder currently starring in every hot-stove rumor, is most likely to land with the New York Mets. Why? Because Steve Cohen’s money machine never sleeps, and, well, that’s Heyman’s “gut feeling.”

"As we sit here today, I’d make the favorite the Mets," Heyman said, channeling his inner Mystic Meg. "Because Steve Cohen is there. I think they had a very good meeting. I think Soto probably believes long-term they’re going to be in great shape. … Me, if I had to pick a favorite right now, I might say Mets."

Now, let’s be clear: Jon Heyman is an entertaining and knowledgeable baseball insider, but he’s also baseball’s version of a carnival fortune teller. Remember that year when he confidently tweeted that “Arson Judge” was heading to the San Francisco Giants? Of course, Aaron Judge stayed in pinstripes, and Heyman earned himself a permanent spot in baseball meme history.

This Soto-to-the-Mets take feels like another shot in the dark, though Heyman does have some solid reasoning behind it. Steve Cohen is baseball’s wealthiest owner, and there’s talk that he’s willing to "go $50 million over whatever anybody offers" for Soto. David Stearns, the Mets’ new baseball czar, has already proven he can assemble competitive teams. Add to that Soto’s preference for staying on the East Coast, and sure, the Mets are a plausible favorite.

But before you hand Heyman the “First to Know” trophy, let’s take a moment to acknowledge that Bleeding Yankee Blue was ahead of the curve on this one—nearly a year ago. In June, BYB boldly predicted the very scenario Heyman is now floating: "Will Juan Soto go to the Mets after this season as I believe he will?" Looks like Jon might be pulling from the BYB playbook on this one (you’re welcome, Jon).

Meanwhile, Yankees owner Hal Steinbrenner is busy assuring everyone that his team has “the ability to sign any player we want to sign.” Classic Hal. Yankees fans have heard this tune before, only to see marquee free agents slip through the cracks. Michael Kay even revealed this week that Cohen’s rumored willingness to outbid everyone by $50 million is making Steinbrenner’s cautious spending approach look downright quaint.

Let’s be honest: the Yankees are in serious danger of losing the Soto sweepstakes. Soto would fit perfectly in the Bronx, but if Cohen is indeed “going full blast,” as insiders claim, Hal might already be waving the white flag. Or, as NJ Advance Media’s Bob Klapisch put it, “My gut says Hal Steinbrenner is already preparing for Soto’s defection into the Mets' loving embrace.”

So, is Soto destined to don Mets blue and orange? It’s possible. The Mets have the cash, the market, and the East Coast appeal to build Soto into a generational superstar. Then again, with Heyman’s track record, maybe we shouldn’t book those Citi Field photo ops just yet. After all, this is the guy who gave us Arson Judge—a misstep so hilariously wrong that every Heyman prediction since comes with a side of skepticism.

Whether Soto ends up with the Mets, Yankees, or a surprise suitor, one thing’s for sure: the offseason drama isn’t over. And through it all, we’ll always have Jon Heyman—part baseball oracle, part chaos agent, always entertaining. Just don’t bet the farm on his gut.

Let me finish by saying the I'm razzing Heyman a bit. At the end of the day, I'd love Soto to be a Yankee, but in the sports world these days... anything is possible.  And for Soto and the Mets? It's very, very possible.

IF YANKEES WANT TO "WIN NOW", THEN TRADE JONES AT THE RIGHT PRICE!

The Yankees are loving Spencer Jones. They are high on this kid's potential. Of course, lots of other teams are also watching from afar and salivating. Other teams want him.... bad. As the trade deadline approaches, Jones is the piece all teams want in a trade. So why shouldn't the Yankees do it?

Honestly, I don't think there is a reason NOT to move him. Make it a bidding war. Tell teams Spencer is going on the block and the highest bidder wins. Let teams "one up" each other and wait for all of the offers.... then pull the trigger on the best one. Jones has potential.... just not here.

I have nothing against Jones, but the Yankees should move him. Teams want him, Jon Heyman is infatuated with him (check it out HERE) and the Yankees don't have a spot for him AND he hasn't earned a big-league spot. I also don't think he will earn one at the rate he is going. 

There is a lot of hype with Jones, and I get it. He has great power and speed and could be an asset to a team. He could.... but he has a lot to do before that chance comes. Jones is 23 and still in Double-A because he is struggling against Double-A pitching. He has a long swing and honestly, he swings at EVERYTHING because his 37% strikeout rate proves it. The plate discipline just isn't there. He has a lot to figure out and needs to do it soon considering his age. 

It's a tough spot to be in. One could argue he will also be blocked by Jasson Dominguez who could miss the rest of the season but is major league ready. Aaron Judge also isn't going anywhere, and what if the Yankees do re-sign Juan Soto? There are quite a few roadblocks.

Honestly, another thing that is on my mind is that the Yankees just aren't good at developing their own talent. I wish they were, but history shows us it's not their strength. One thing that the Yankees do is overvalue their prospects and hold onto them for too long and a lot of times they just don't pan out. If the Yankees hold on to Spencer, they are holding on to an older Double-A prospect that is struggling and could be missing out on a piece that they can use to win. We are in WIN NOW mode, so it's time to get something proven.

At the end of the day, prospects are suspects until they prove otherwise. I don't think Jones will be the player the Yankees think he will be and instead of waiting, they should trade him in a package that will bring back an elite arm.  I don't understand Heyman's infatuation, and someone needs to clue Heyman in..... who wants to tell him?

--Jeana Bellezza-Ochoa

BYB Senior Managing Editor

Twitter: @nyprincessj

ADD MOROSI TO THE "BASEBALL NON-INSIDER" LIST

If you read Bleeding Yankee Blue, ya'll know I can't stand bad info and the fact that over the years we have noticed a shift in the MLB when it comes to reporting and getting information out there. This new title of "Baseball Insider" was invented for guys that are "in the trenches" and knew sources and were "getting the inside scoop". But as we have seen, other than guys like Jeff Passan and Jack Curry... the actual baseball insiders aren't that at all.  Put it this way, their one job is to get the info, right? I mean they are the ones with the sources, and we are so relying on them for good information. Their info is supposed to be air-tight.  That's what a "BASEBALL INSIDER" is. Oh my, how we have fallen. 

I look at all the mistakes that are made over the last few years... they're laughable and irresponsible. It's like they are fumbling over each other to get the story out first, but they are not doing one important thing when they report... they aren't getting it right.

It's better to be right than to be first. That's my rule of thumb.  I also would never self-proclaim myself a baseball insider even if I could proudly wear the fake title, because, let's face it, with all the recent mistakes... why would you want to be known as that?

Bob Nightengale's was one of my favorites:

Trevor Bauer would eventually go to the Dodgers.  We all know that time Jon Heyman said that Arson Judge was going to the Giants. 

Clearly he meant Aaron, but he was wrong anyway... and the Yankees even made fun of him a few days ago when they signed Juan Soto.

Jon Soto appears headed to Yankees

— New York Yankees (@Yankees) December 7, 2023

The latest comes from Jon Morosi of MLB.  Now Shohei Ohtani is one of the biggest off-season acquisitions of our generation, and I guess feeling the need to get it right didn't matter to Jon, as long as he was able to get it first.  

Yardbarker writes:

"On Friday, Jon Morosi of MLB Network reported that Ohtani was on a flight to Toronto, hinting that an agreement with the Blue Jays was either done or close. That was not the case..."

Well, that proved catastrophic... I would even suggest embarrassing. Morosi apologized:

I'd love to know Jon's source, because clearly he needs new ones.

Meanwhile, what I think was more embarrassing was that the already-exposed "baseball insiders" that were wrong before him for Bauer and Judge were the guys trying to straighten it out for everyone. 

Comedy at it's best.  

I guess to get back in our good graces maybe? I guess they wanted to act like they were still considered "baseball insiders"? How very noble of you Bob and Jon. Seriously, you're already not followed by me.  

Look, who knows... but let's face it, the whole thing's embarrassing. All these guys are out there trying to get the story first... but let's face it, when it comes to baseball insiders, and if you REALLY AND TRULY watch their actions online, the really good ones are air-tight and have to correct information.  This is journalism whether they want to believe it is or not.  You gotta be right... so why not wait!  

Hats off to guys like Passan and Curry, and my guys Pete Caldera and Eric Boland... these guys are tops in the industry.  Thorough and eager to follow some journalistic integrity.  

I no longer follow Heyman, Morosi or Nightengale.  Why would I? Why would you?

Let me also state that my opinion on this is probably different than yours.  That's what makes opinions fun.  I take no offense to readers who won't read me because they don't agree with me. I know that sometimes I come off harsh or rotten or even complimentary to fellow writers.  But one thing I will always believe in is having an opinion, sharing that opinion and following standards of journalism.  I don't expect to be the best every day... but what I do expect of me and my writers at BYB is that we do it with a presentation we can be proud of.  If I didn't believe that, Bleeding Yankee Blue wouldn't be here since 2010.  

Like us, hate us, I don't care.  Respect us? You must.  I'm sure that goes across the board to certain "baseball insiders."

MOM, THAT MAN IS LINKED TO THE YANKEES AGAIN!

Derek Jeter was the first to say it, and when Derek Jeter speaks, you know he sees something that others may not see. That's right! Months ago he said to the world that the Yanks may be smart to go out and get Juan Soto.  That's a paraphrase, but there's no question the Yankees front office, desperate at the time were thinking about it long and hard.

Now comes word that Juan Soto and the Padres "might" part, only because the Padres may be changing up how they do business.  Inside the Pinstripes writes:

"The Yankees likely will be extremely active this upcoming offseason. The starting rotation will need to be addressed but adding another left-handed bat also is extremely important. One player who reportedly could be a Yankees target is San Diego Padres superstar Juan Soto, according to the New York Post's Jon Heyman.

"There’s been a suggestion the Padres may scale back after failing to make the playoffs with the third-highest payroll," Heyman said. "And some believe Juan Soto, who’s a year from free agency, could be up for trade discussion.

"Not sure selling is in San Diego’s DNA, but in case, the Yankees, who badly need left-handed hitters, make sense. (And no one should ever rule out Steve Cohen, of course.) One exec suggests: It should be patterned after the Mookie Betts deal, a superstar with a year to go (though hopefully would turn out fairer)."

Now take from this what you will. Heyman is not a true baseball insider in the sense that he's never right before the signing happens, but then just jumps in after to be part of the Twitter mix as if to say, "I'm right here with Buster and Jack Curry." But really, he's just a gnat.  I respect the grind, but it's obvious now.  Go to the beach, it's over Jon.  Arson Judge says hello.

But back to Soto.  Will it happen? Do the Yankees have the money? Will the Padres want to keep him? Many questions, welcome to the world of speculation.

As much as I love to watch Soto play, there is something about stars that come to the Bronx that change into mediocre ones after they arrive.  I don't know if it's the pressure or the amount of money they command that changes their mindset, but I don't know what to make of this idea either to be honest.  

Let me ask you. What do you make of it?  

WEIRD, BUT PROVOCATIVE ANALYSIS OF WHY JUDGE WON'T PLAY IN CALI

Jon Heyman drives me crazy. There, I said it. 

But that being said, I can actually appreciate this piece of his analysis when it comes to ballparks, home runs, team needs and where Aaron Judge will play next.  Now, dare I say it means nothing when money comes into play, but it is still very interesting, and I appreciate it! Kudos to Heyman here. 

Heyman writes:

"While the Giants and Dodgers seem like the biggest threats to sign away superstar Aaron Judge, both carry potential complications in pursuits against the Yankees, who hold edges for Judge in legacy, ballpark and familiarity.

The Giants are clearly gung-ho in their efforts and said to be “elated” by their visit this week with Judge, but the idea they hold an advantage as his “hometown” team seems specious; he’s from Linden, Calif., two hours and a lifestyle away. (Judge actually lives now in Tampa, which is Yankees territory.)

The Giants have tried before for big power stars, but came up short for Bryce Harper and were rejected by Judge’s friend Giancarlo Stanton. They may have learned from the Harper try, when they came in late and low, but Oracle Park remains ranked in the bottom third for homers even if it wouldn’t hold most of Judge’s super long drives. "

In other words, what Heyman is saying is the ballpark isn't great to showcase Judge homers. Also, that while Judge's parents live in Linden, CA, he actually doesn't live there.  And when it comes to the Dodgers, they need a shortstop because Trea Turner is going through the free agency process right now. That's more important than trying to steal away Judge from the east coast.

It's a crumb, but interesting.

This theory is comforting to Yankee fans I imagine as we wait for Judge to decide on what he wants to do.

Carry on...

HERE'S YOUR THANKSGIVING APPETIZER - VERLANDER TO THE YANKEES?!

First and foremost, Happy Thanksgiving BYB family! We hope you are happy, healthy and enjoying your day with friends and family. Before you indulge in some turkey or pumpkin pie, let's have a Yankee appetizer.

That rumor is back again....you know, the Justin Verlander one. This time last year I asked JUSTIN VERLANDER TO THE YANKEES? and I really didn't think anything of it. I STILL don't think anything of it today...but the rumor is back and NJ.com has the scoop on it HERE.

The Yankees are always tied to big name free agents, so why would it change now? Add in that the Yankees wanted him last season and missed out on him so why wouldn't they be interested again? Oh, especially after he was just named the 2022 AL Cy Young winner after winning 18 games and posting a career low 1.75 ERA. EVERY TEAM is going to be knocking on Verlander's door.

And that is also going to make him very expensive. He's going to cash in after the season he just had so now we wait and see who's going to dig the deepest in their pockets to get him. I really don't think it will be the Yankees.

Look, Verlander had the chance to be a Yankee this season and he turned us down. The Yankees supposedly had some inside information.... but boy was it wrong.
"The Yankees tried for him last year, and they’ve gotten word through some high-ranking, political people, that he’d like to go to New York," Jon Heyman said, "They made him an offer, and they felt, the way it was handled, that he didn’t want to go to New York. The Yankees are again trying with Verlander, but I don’t think they’re confident."

So there you go...the Yankees aren't confident in their offer (supposedly) and neither am I. I don't think Verlander wants to be a Yankee and I am okay with that. I really don't want him anyway. I just want this dumb rumor to go away. Let the Mets, Dodgers or Houston throws their money at him.

So there is your Thanksgiving nibble.... personally I think some Apple pie sounds better right now so I am gonna leave it at that. Enjoy the rest of your Thanksgiving, everyone!

--Jeana Bellezza-Ochoa

BYB Senior Managing Editor

Twitter: @nyprincessj 

JON HEYMAN HAS SOME CRAZY OPINIONS ABOUT AARON JUDGE!

It's no secret that Aaron Judge is beloved and valued. I love the guy and want to see him stay in the Bronx but at the right price. I know a lot of us feel the same way but there are others that think the Yankees should write a blank check because money is no object.

I get it, the Yankees are worth $7 billion and can open their wallets if they want that doesn't mean they should. They should be concerned with return on investment also, but Jon Heyman seems to think Judge is the best position player and should be paid as such, read more HERE. 

I think Heyman has lost ALL of his marbles because calling Judge BETTER than Mike Trout is just irrational. Trout has a resume that all baseball fans should respect. He's a damn good player and he's been consistent even though his team have struggled since 2009. Judge is off to one hell of a season and he is playing better than Trout NOW but Heyman says he is better and should be paid MORE than Trout.

Here's pat of what Heyman had to say:
"If Judge isn’t Trout now, it’s because he’s better. Truth is, he's better than anyone else, too. There’s no winning argument to be made that he’s deserving of anything less than that $36 million best-in-the-business standard. He bet on himself, and he won big."

Wow, that's a statement. Sure, right now Judge is playing better than Trout. Judge's .315 BA, 22 homeruns and 45 RBIs are impressive but Trout is a nine-time MLB All-Star, three-time American League MVP and is an eight-time winner of the Silver Slugger Award. He's got a long history of being one of the best (if not the best) players in the last decade. He played well consistently to get that $36 million a year long term contract.

But Judge hasn't and as much as I would like to see Judge stay a Yankee he doesn't deserve a 8-10 year commitment at or exceeding Trout money. At the end of the day he is 30 years old, injury prone and has too many lengthy slumps for my liking. The Yankees would be reckless to give another long term deal at top dollar to Judge when they already have big contracts to pay to Gerrit Cole and Giancarlo Stanton.

Another contract like that and I can already hear Brian Cashman and Hal Steinbrenner talking about the luxury tax for many many years. This could be a contract that limits the teams flexibility to improve the roster for years to come and these mega deals never work out for the teams. No player is worth Trout type money....no one.

So I agree with Heyman on one thing - this IS Judge's team. Hopefully it will be for a long time just like he said.....but at the right terms. 

--Jeana Bellezza-Ochoa

BYB Senior Managing Editor

Twitter: @nyprincessj