COULD THE PHILLIES FILL THE HOLMES GAP?

Source: Jason Szenes / New York Post

Clay Holmes gives me heartburn. There I said it. And with that said, I have no problem with him pitching elsewhere. So if no Holmes, then who will be there to set up presumably Luke Weaver? Well the Yankees could have some opportunities with their NL rivals from Philadelphia. And I am okay with that.

"Carlos Estévez, Jeff Hoffman, Tanner Scott. The Yanks have cast a wide net in the relief market. The hard-throwing Estévez posted a 2.45 ERA in 54 appearances for the Angels and Phillies last year, while Hoffman logged a 2.17 ERA over 68 appearances as a reliable choice in that Philly 'pen," reported Sports Illustrated. 

With Weaver in the closer position, there is a need for a reliable set up guy or perhaps guys. The Yankees have the opportunity to sign a premiere reliever from any of the the above but Estevez certainly is the best of the trio. "When the year ended, Philadelphia made it known that either Estevez or Hoffman would likely be on their way out. Signing both would be ideal, but with other needs on the roster, it's tough to justify paying two of the most expensive relievers available," reported Sports Illustrated.

But the interesting twist in all of this is that although Holmes is on the market as reliever, he could be turned into a starter. According to the New York Post, this is not as crazy as it sounds. "A few teams are inquiring about Clay Holmes transitioning from the bullpen to the rotation, including the Mets, a source told The Post. Holmes has not started since 2018, his debut season with the Pirates. But he was a starter throughout his minor league tenure. Teams are more aggressively looking at relievers returning to the rotation due to recent success in that area. Kansas City’s Seth Lugo just finished third for the AL Cy Young." And recall the success former Yankee reliever Michael King had last year as a starter with San Diego, finishing seventh for the Cy Young Award. 

So as the Winter Meetings heat up in Dallas beginning Sunday, not only will the Juan Soto sweepstakes be on, the reliever market will be ready set go as well. "Even if no trades are finalized this week, the groundwork for offseason trades is often laid at the meetings, one of the rare times that executives from all 30 clubs are in the same place at the same time," reported MLB.com. It will be an interesting few weeks as we head into the end of the year. It is all hands on deck. And a wonder of who will be a Yankee and who will not come 2025.

--Suzie Pinstripe
BYB Senior Managing Editor
Twitter: @suzieprof

RIZZO AND GLEYBER NO MAS

It's over.

The Yankees have officially closed the book on Gleyber Torres and Anthony Rizzo, as reported by the always-reliable Jack Curry of YES Network. According to Curry, the Yankees have “no plans” to pursue either player in free agency, and while I’ve always liked both of them, this is baseball. And in baseball, tough decisions are as routine as a seventh-inning stretch.

Anthony Rizzo’s departure probably stings the most. When he arrived at the trade deadline in 2021, he felt like the perfect piece: a slick-fielding, left-handed power hitter with veteran leadership to boot. But injuries turned his Yankee tenure into a revolving door to the IL. His back gave him grief in 2022, a head injury sidelined him in 2023, and 2024 ended with a broken arm. The Yankees paid him a $6 million buyout to move on, which is logical but still tough to swallow.

First base is now a question mark. Oswaldo Cabrera is versatile but not a long-term solution, and Ben Rice—well, let’s just say his rookie slash line of .171/.264/.349 suggests he needs more seasoning. Safe to say, the Yankees will likely shop around for a new first baseman.

Then there’s Gleyber Torres, the ultimate “what could have been” story. When Torres debuted in 2018, he looked like a star in the making, and his 38-homer season in 2019 only cemented that feeling. But after that, his bat cooled off, his slugging percentage took a nosedive, and consistency became a foreign concept.

To his credit, Torres showed resilience in 2024. After a sluggish start, he adjusted during the All-Star break and hit .293 with a .361 OBP over the second half of the season. He even reclaimed the leadoff spot and performed decently in the postseason. But the Yankees decided not to extend him a qualifying offer, and now he’s gone it appears, officially according to Curry. It’s like breaking up with someone you know is talented but just isn’t right for your long-term plans.

Jack Curry’s report makes it clear that the Yankees are focusing on the future, even if it means letting go of two well-known faces. Baseball is a business, after all, and sometimes that business means saying goodbye to players you’ve rooted for.

Rizzo and Torres both leave behind memories—some great, some frustrating—but here’s hoping they find success elsewhere. Meanwhile, the Yankees have plenty of work to do this offseason, and Jack Curry will probably be the first to let us know what’s next. Stay tuned.

ROB MANFRED JUST SUCKS

Rob Manfred has officially lost the plot.

Baseball, the greatest game in the world, does not need gimmicks. It never has, and it never will. Yet here comes Manfred, tinkering with the sport like a toddler who just found his dad’s tools and wants to "fix" a car that runs perfectly fine. Every new rule he pushes feels like another bad idea he brainstormed while binge-watching TikToks. And now, he’s floating the most absurd idea yet: the Golden At-Bat.

What is this nonsense? Manfred described it as letting your best player bat out of order in a clutch moment. Yeah, because nothing says "integrity of the game" like ripping up the lineup card and saying, “Who needs rules?” This isn’t baseball; it’s playground chaos. It’s beer league softball with a commissioner who thinks he’s reinventing the wheel. Spoiler alert, Rob: baseball doesn’t need reinvention.

This “Golden At-Bat” is so dumb it feels like an SNL skit. Imagine you’re a pitcher who just struck out Shohei Ohtani with the bases loaded—clutch, right? Not under Manfred’s circus rules! The manager waves a magic wand, and, bam, Ohtani’s back at the plate. Even Roger Clemens chimed in, tweeting, “You strike him out, then they can just use this rule to let him stay up?” That’s not strategy; that’s a WWE storyline.

What’s worse is Manfred might have got this idea from the Savannah Bananas, an exhibition team that’s basically the Harlem Globetrotters of baseball. Listen, the Bananas are great—for TikTok. But MLB is supposed to be, oh I don’t know, a professional sport with rules and integrity. What’s next, Rob? A mid-game dance-off? A rule where Aaron Judge can count as two players because he’s tall?

And let’s talk about Manfred’s other “innovations. The ghost runner in extra innings? Who asked for that? Not me. The pitch clock? Okay, we get it, you think games are too long and perhaps this is the only thing I do like these days. It doesn't bother me. But come on, Rob, baseball doesn’t need a gimmicky glow-up; it’s already perfect.

Manfred doesn’t seem to grasp that the beauty of baseball is its unpredictability. Sometimes, the No. 9 hitter comes up with the game on the line and delivers a moment that makes fans lose their minds. That’s the magic. That’s what makes baseball, baseball. Not some contrived moment where you hand the bat to your best player like it’s Little League.

And don’t even get me started on his excuse about “modernizing the game” and “getting traditionalists on board.” Rob, we’re not old timers still using typewriters. We’re baseball fans who understand that this sport doesn’t need your meddling.

Here’s the truth: Manfred is tinkering with the Mona Lisa because he thinks it needs jazz hands. Baseball isn’t broken—it’s you, Rob. Stop trying to turn this sport into a soulless algorithm designed for people who don’t even watch the games. Leave baseball alone.

If you want to improve something, maybe start with your legacy. Right now, it’s going to be, “The guy who gave us the ghost runner, the pitch clock, and whatever this Golden At-Bat garbage is.” That’s not modernization, Rob—it’s vandalism and it's disgusting.

RED SOX SNAG THEIR CLOSER

As a lifelong admirer of Aroldis Chapman, it’s bittersweet to see the flamethrower take his talents to the Boston Red Sox. The news that Chapman signed a one-year, $10.75 million contract with them stings deeply—not just because of the player he is, but because of what he once meant to the Bronx to me personally.

Chapman spent a good amount of time with Yankees, carving out a legacy as one of the game’s most electric closers. His blazing fastball and knack for delivering under pressure made him a key figure in many memorable Yankees moments. I never wanted to see him leave, even during his occasional struggles. Now, seeing him don the Red Sox cap is a reminder of how unpredictable and painful baseball’s rivalries can be.

Let’s go! pic.twitter.com/MhJ64TN6Lq

— Aroldis Chapman (@AChapman_105) December 3, 2024

Chapman’s recent seasons have been a whirlwind. In 2023, he split time between the Kansas City Royals and Texas Rangers, where he showed flashes of the dominance that made him one of the most feared pitchers in baseball. By the time he joined the Pittsburgh Pirates last season, he was no longer the elite closer of his peak, but he remained a valuable reliever.

In 68 appearances for the Pirates, Chapman posted a respectable 3.79 ERA, struck out 98 batters over 61 2/3 innings, and recorded 14 saves. His command was as volatile as ever, but his ability to lock down key moments earned him 22 holds and a brief stint as closer. Even at 36 years old, Chapman demonstrated he can still compete at a high level.

With the Red Sox, Chapman adds another layer of intrigue to one of baseball’s most storied rivalries. He knows the Yankees all too well and has extensive experience pitching in high-stakes games against Boston. For me as a Yankee fan, the thought of Chapman toeing the rubber at Fenway Park in a Red Sox uniform is enough to stir uncomfortable emotions.

For Boston, Chapman brings not only experience but the potential to lock down late innings. Whether as a setup man or closer, his fiery demeanor and ability to induce swings and misses make him a formidable weapon.

For me, Chapman will always be a "good soldier" Yankee. Even as his career took him to other teams, I hoped he might one day return to the Bronx. Now, seeing him join the Red Sox feels like salt in the wound. Rivalries aside, I’ll continue to root for Chapman to succeed—except, of course, when he’s facing the Yankees. He’s earned that respect as one of the most electrifying relievers of this generation in my opinion.

So long, Aroldis.  Red Sox Suck.

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.

THAT FORMER YANKEE RIGHTY HEADS TO QUEENS

The New York Yankees are masters of hesitation, and it’s starting to wear thin. Right-hander Frankie Montas, once viewed as a potential bounce-back candidate for the Yankees, has now signed a two-year, $34 million deal with the New York Mets. The move, pending a physical, highlights a familiar story: the Yankees wait too long and miss out.

Montas, 31, wasn’t perfect last season, throwing 150.2 innings with a 4.84 ERA split between Cincinnati and Milwaukee. But the Mets see him as a critical piece of their rotation as they aim to contend in 2025. Meanwhile, the Yankees are stuck in their usual offseason malaise, watching as opportunities pass them by.

Let’s rewind. After Montas’s disastrous stint in pinstripes in 2022 and a subsequent season-and-a-half derailed by injuries, it seemed logical for the Yankees to offer him a low-risk, one-year deal for 2024. They’d rushed him back for a meaningless late-season cameo, and Montas had expressed gratitude for the team’s rehab support. It all seemed to set the stage for a reunion—one where the Yankees could bet on his upside at a bargain price.

Instead, Montas signed a $16 million deal with Cincinnati last offseason. Sure, it was a gamble for the Reds, but why weren’t the Yankees willing to take a shot at half that cost? He went on to start Opening Day for Cincinnati, struggled to a 5.01 ERA over 19 starts, and was dealt midseason to Milwaukee. With the Brewers, Montas found a groove, striking out 70 batters in 57 1/3 innings, though his ERA still hovered at 4.55.

Now, Montas is heading to Queens, where the Mets are clearly more focused on building a contender than their Bronx rivals seem to be. While the Yankees sit idle, other teams are taking calculated risks to bolster their rosters.  Now trust me, I hated the fact that Montas wasn't truthful of his injury when the Yankees brought him in. It was a bitch move to collect money from the team and then complain that he had the injury "but tried to play through it." It was bull, but now he's better. 

Let’s be clear: signing Montas again wouldn’t have guaranteed the Yankees a championship in 2025. But it’s not just about Montas—it’s about a troubling pattern of inaction and indecisiveness. This is the same Yankee team that has dragged its feet this offseason, content to rest on the laurels of mediocrity while rivals like the Mets make bold moves.

The Mets see a flawed pitcher with untapped potential and a chance to rebound. The Yankees see…nothing, apparently. They’re stuck in neutral, perpetually hesitating while players sign elsewhere.

Yankees fans deserve better. They deserve a front office willing to take better chances and build a team with urgency with good players... Montas aside. Meanwhile, the Mets are showing what it looks like to act with purpose.  Is Soto next for them?

We shall soon see.

DJ LEMAHIEU: JUST A BUMP IN THE ROAD?

Every great athlete has an off year. Babe Ruth? Even the Sultan of Swat had a dud season by his standards. Michael Jordan? His Wizards days weren't exactly legendary. And now, DJ LeMahieu, the Yankees’ dependable Swiss Army knife of the infield, has had that year. Last season wasn’t pretty—there’s no sugarcoating it. But before we toss DJ on the pile of former stars, let’s pump the brakes.

LeMahieu, now 36, was riddled with injuries and limited to just 67 games last season. His bat? Let's just say it was more “silent film” than blockbuster. But to anyone ready to pack his bags: remember this man has been a lifesaver for the Yankees. He’s done everything but pitch (and honestly, in some bullpen emergencies, you half-expected him to warm up). It is my opinion that DJ is still the guy you want in the field, a defensive wizard who can seamlessly transition between first, second, and third base like a defensive chameleon.

The Yankees hoped he’d recover from his injuries and reestablish his dominance at the plate. Spoiler: it didn’t happen. His offensive output continued to nosedive, and suddenly, the guy we nicknamed “The Machine” felt more like the lawnmower that won’t start. It wasn’t fun for him, and it wasn’t fun for us.

LeMahieu’s time on the Yankees is a sticking point. His contract is a lot for someone who may not be a regular starter. But let’s not pretend the Yankees are living paycheck to paycheck. They’re the Bronx Bombers, not the Tampa Bay Tightwads. And frankly, the idea of “eating his contract” is easier said than done. Who’s letting $30 million marinate in the garbage disposal?

Here’s where things get spicier. Oswaldo Cabrera has shown flashes of brilliance as the Yankees’ new utility darling. He’s younger, cheaper, and has a swagger that makes him feel like the shiny toy under the Christmas tree. But if Cabrera’s really the golden child, why hasn’t he locked down an everyday spot? Instead, he floats between roles like a part-time barista, which doesn’t scream "future franchise cornerstone."

So, what’s the real issue here? DJ’s diminishing role isn’t just about his performance—it’s about the Yankees’ indecision. Cabrera could take over. LeMahieu could bounce back. But instead, they’re stuck in a weird limbo, hoping the baseball gods make the decision for them. Again, the Yankees are too slow with how they do business.

Now, let’s address the chatter: Will the Yankees cut DJ loose? My hot take? My honest feeling? They won’t. They probably should, from a cold, spreadsheet perspective. But the Yankees aren’t as ruthless as they like to pretend. They’d rather shuffle DJ into a diminished role, use him when needed, and quietly hope he rediscovers some of that 2019 magic.

Also, this is DJ LeMahieu we’re talking about—a guy who gave the Yankees countless moments of brilliance. Baseball has a way of rewarding loyalty (or guilt-tripping teams into keeping fan favorites). Cutting him would feel like yanking off a Band-Aid, and the Yankees aren’t exactly known for their pain tolerance.

LeMahieu might never again be the guy who slashed .327/.375/.518 in his MVP-worthy prime, but let’s give the man some credit. Bad years happen. Injuries heal. And sometimes, players surprise us. The Yankees might not have the spine to let him go, but maybe they won’t need to. Because if there’s one thing we’ve learned about DJ LeMahieu, it’s that counting him out is a bad bet.

So here’s hoping the Machine’s gears just need a little oil. Because if DJ proves us all wrong, that $30 million will look like a steal—and the Yankees will be better for it.

THE LATEST JUAN SOTO RUMORS ARE NOT GOOD FOR THE YANKEES!

In all of my Yankee watching years I have always said "Never count the Red Sox out" and that appears to be true now more than ever. It's been a while since they were a bit "threat" to the Yankees but....here we are Yankee family. It could be true.

We have been talking about a Mets vs Yankees showdown for Juan Soto, but that might not be the case. Boston could be a real threat to sign him and disappoint both New York teams. There's always that one mystery team or unexpected team that throws a monkey wrench in free agency chases, Randy Miller thinks the Red Sox are the real threat now, read more HERE and HERE.

I would expect a Boston publication to lean and favor the Red Sox, so no surprise there. What is surprising is Randy Miller predicting the Yankees to finish fourth in the Juan Soto sweepstakes. FOURTH? Miller doesn't think the Yankees will go to $600 million that other teams are already willing to give and he believes the Yankees won't exceed 13 years. Because of those factors, he believes the Yankees will have the least attractive offer.

It's interesting to see the Red Sox really getting some traction in the rumor mill department. On one hand I would say that it's not surprising because if anything they could just be in it to drive the price up on Soto's deal. However, David Ortiz is rumored to be very involved in Soto's recruitment. Multiple sources say that the Red Sox are dedicated to adding high caliber players and have roughly $70 million in cap space before the first luxury tax threshold. Scott Boras also said that ownership was "committed" and "wanting to secure high-level players." Now, I don't trust anything that Boras says, because he's paid to do exactly what he's doing right now....cause big waves that gives his clients (and them himself) lucrative deals. Usually I would say you know Boras is lying if his mouth is moving but the Red Sox have been out of relevancy for too long so they are hungry.

Soto himself has also said that he wants to play for a contending team that wants to win. Again, you never count the Red Sox out (ever). He also wants to play for team that has a talent pool and the Red Sox definitely have that. They have a strong farm system and three of the top ten prospects in baseball. So the Red Sox have money to recruit other players with Soto and they also have the talent within. That makes a pretty dangerous combination....and the Yankees lack the stronger farm system.

I don't know that the "Yankees fear Red Sox more than anyone else" but I'm not counting them out by any means. We would be foolish to think that the Red Sox aren't hungry enough to chase Soto and add other talent around him. They've been out of the game for far too long.

--Jeana Bellezza-Ochoa

BYB Senior Managing Editor

Twitter: @nyprincessj

WHY IS NO ONE TALKING ABOUT BEN RICE AT FIRST?

Forget Anthony Rizzo. He’s not walking through that clubhouse door again—at least not in pinstripes. The Yankees have a hole at first base, and while the fanbase is busy drawing up wild free-agent wish lists, the most logical solution is already in the building. Enter Ben Rice, the Yankees’ unassuming yet intriguing in-house option who could be the answer to this pressing question.

Sure, Rice didn’t exactly light the Bronx on fire in 2024, but the tools, the potential, and the pedigree are all there. And let’s face it: the Yankees might not have the financial bandwidth to splurge on a first baseman if they’re going all-in on a certain lefty slugger named Juan Soto. That’s where Rice steps in—cheap, controllable, and brimming with potential.

Is our first baseman hiding in plain sight?  Ben Rice’s first stint in the majors was... let’s call it a learning experience.  As Empire Sports Media points out, a 73 wRC+ over 178 plate appearances aren’t going to make anyone scream, “There’s the next Don Mattingly!” But let’s not write the eulogy just yet.

Bad luck and small sample sizes played a role in those struggles. He made strong contact, showed patience at the plate, and proved he wasn’t overwhelmed by big-league pitching. With only 109 balls in play during his debut, there’s simply not enough data to justify abandoning ship.

Besides, look at his minor league track record:174 wRC+ in Triple-A over 138 plate appearances.
155 wRC+ in Double-A.  Those numbers are good. The guy wasn’t just hitting; he was destroying pitching at every level.

So, why should the Yankees roll with Rice at first base in 2025? Let me count the ways.

1. He’s Already Here: You know who doesn’t need a $200 million contract? Ben Rice. You know who doesn’t require a trade package of five prospects? Ben Rice. The Yankees have already invested in him, and he’s waiting for his shot.

2. The Yankees Can’t Keep Spending Like It’s Monopoly: If the front office locks in Juan Soto this offseason (and they should), there won’t be piles of cash left to throw at first base. Rice is a cost-effective option with a potentially high reward. Who doesn’t love a budget-friendly success story?

3. Even a Little Progress Would Be Huge: Rice doesn’t need to become the second coming of Lou Gehrig to be valuable. Even a league-average bat at first base would be a marked improvement over the underwhelming production the Yankees got from Rizzo in the last two seasons.

4. Upside, Upside, Upside: His power is legit. His swing decisions are sharp. His contact rates are better than advertised. If he gets the reps and the confidence, there’s every reason to believe Rice can grow into a productive big-leagues.

Let’s be real: Anthony Rizzo had a fantastic career, but his time as a productive Yankee ended long before his contract did. With his departure, the Yankees can finally stop papering over first base and give someone else a shot.

Rice is already in the family. He knows the system, he’s got the tools, and he’s got something to prove. Why go fishing for an overpriced free agent when you might already have the answer in-house?

If Rice struggles, what’s the downside? The Yankees can pivot midseason or make a trade if necessary. But if Rice succeeds—and the minor-league dominance suggests he might—the Yankees have a first baseman locked in for pennies on the dollar.

There’s no need to panic. Baseball’s beauty lies in its unpredictability, and Rice has earned the chance to show what he can do over a full season.

Sure, it’s easy to look at his 2024 MLB numbers and doubt him. But Rice deserves more than 50 games to prove himself in my opinion. Baseball isn’t a sport for knee-jerk reactions (even if it makes us want to yell the loudest ones). I feel like the Yankees invested in him, and he’s shown at every level of the minors that he has the talent to succeed. Let the kid fly.

First base doesn’t need a superstar—it needs a solution. Rice could be that solution, and the Yankees owe it to themselves to find out.

So, as the offseason chatter heats up, remember the name: Ben Rice. He’s young, hungry, and already in the Yankees’ family. Who needs a flashy free agent when you’ve got a diamond in the rough waiting to shine?

WOULD ADDING JANSEN MAKE SENSE?

MassLive's Chris Cotillo recently lobbed a suggestion Yankees fans might meet with a mix of intrigue and side-eye: the idea of pursuing former Red Sox closer Kenley Jansen in free agency. Yes, the same Kenley Jansen who’s been terrorizing hitters for years with a cutter so nasty it could moonlight as a horror movie villain.

"According to major league sources, the Yankees made a serious run at Jansen before he signed a two-year, $32 million contract with Boston in December 2022," Cotillo wrote. "With mercurial All-Star Clay Holmes heading for free agency after the season, it’s more than likely the Yankees look to add a big-time piece at the back end of their relief corps. And Jansen, at nearly 37 years old, just wants to win wherever he goes next."

Intriguing? Sure. Plausible? Eh, not so fast. As a Yankees fan, the idea of poaching a former Red Sox closer—one who has a 1.35 ERA and 9 saves in 19 career appearances against the Bronx Bombers—is tempting. Who wouldn’t want to steal Boston’s thunder and make it their rain? But let’s not forget the Yankees already have some lightning of their own with Luke Weaver, who came out of nowhere like that extra bag of fries at the bottom of the fast-food bag. Weaver earned the right to close games next season, no question.

Jansen’s résumé is stacked—four All-Star nods, a 2.57 career ERA, and the kind of poise that comes with 15 years of success. But he’s also 37 years old. In baseball years, that’s basically ancient—he’s one blown save away from being offered a gig on YES Network. And while Kiley McDaniel of ESPN predicts Jansen could land a two-year, $25 million deal (a bargain if you’re playing Monopoly), it’s hard to justify throwing big bucks at a closer whose best days might be behind him. Especially when you already have a shiny, new option in Weaver.

Instead of dropping millions on Jansen, the Yankees should let Weaver keep doing his thing and enjoy the bonus of flexibility unless they just want to put Jansen in the pen "just in case" or as a "Second closer", whatever that means. Picture Boone using him in high-leverage situations whenever the game is on the line—fifth inning, seventh inning, Tuesday at brunch. No need to save him exclusively for the ninth. Plus, spending that kind of money on a 37-year-old arm feels like buying a luxury sports car for your morning commute—it’s flashy, but probably not necessary.

While Jansen still has gas left in the tank and a cutter that could make hitters weep, this idea just doesn’t click. Let Boston mourn their own bullpen woes while the Yankees find the next unsung hero to dominate in pinstripes. After all, if Weaver’s already bringing the thunder, why pay for more rain if we don't have to?

I don't know, I'm conflicted. What do you think?

COULD THE RED SOX BE LOOKING TO LAND 2 BIG BOPPERS?

The Yankees’ offseason strategy—or whatever you want to call it—feels like a slow-motion disaster. Hal Steinbrenner seems to be dragging his feet while everyone else is sprinting. 

The Mets and Dodgers are already throwing money around like confetti, and now the Red Sox appear to be joining in, ready to make some noise. The thought of Boston swooping in to grab Juan Soto is enough to ruin any Yankees fan’s day. And just to twist the knife a little deeper, now there’s talk of the Red Sox going after Pete Alonso. This is shaping up to be one of those winters where Yankees fans sit around asking, “What are we even doing?”

Randy Miller of NJ.com made waves when he went on WFAN and shared some unsettling insights. According to Miller, the Yankees are topping out at $550 million for Soto, while some teams—yes, including Boston—may already be dangling offers in the $600 million range. These are reports, guys, but it's interesting isn't it? Miller didn’t confirm those offers, but the speculation alone is maddening. He even added, “I’m hearing the Yankees fear the Red Sox more than anyone.” 

Let that sink in. The Yankees, the big dogs of the AL East, are afraid of the Red Sox stealing their biggest offseason target.

The thought of Juan Soto in a Red Sox uniform is genuinely horrifying. Picture him patrolling the outfield at Fenway, smashing balls over the Green Monster while Yankees fans watch helplessly. It’s enough to give you nightmares. And the worst part? It doesn’t even feel impossible. The Red Sox seem fully committed to making a statement, and they’re not stopping with Soto.

Here’s where things get even weirder: the Red Sox are reportedly in on Pete Alonso, too. The Mets’ star first baseman could be heading to Boston for a rumored six-year, $159 million deal. Alonso would be exactly the kind of bat the Red Sox need, and they’re already cooking up ways to fit him into their lineup. Maybe he slides into the DH role, or maybe they get creative and trade Triston Casas to clear first base for Alonso. Either way, it’s a bold plan, and honestly, it feels like the Red Sox are having a little too much fun trolling the Yankees.

Meanwhile, Hal Steinbrenner is out here pinching pennies like he’s running a mid-market franchise. The Yankees’ refusal to go beyond $550 million for Soto is a glaring example of this cautious approach. Sure, being smart with money is important, but at some point, you have to act like the Yankees. This team isn’t supposed to be outbid or outmaneuvered, yet here we are, watching rivals like the Mets, Dodgers, and now even the Red Sox make moves while the Yankees twiddle their thumbs.

The Mets have Steve Cohen, who’s more than willing to break the bank. The Dodgers are lurking in the shadows, ready to swoop in for the right player. And I didn't believe it before when I wrote I NARROWED IT DOWN TO 3 TEAMS WHO WILL SIGN JUAN SOTO but now I do... the Red Sox are charging into the fray, looking like they’ve got something to prove. It’s enough to make Yankees fans nostalgic for the days when George Steinbrenner would’ve already signed Soto, Alonso, and probably a couple of other stars just for good measure.  And let me be clear; the Yankees don't want Alonso, but it's the idea that the Red Sox are reportedly being competitive that is driving me crazy right about now.

If Soto ends up in Boston, or if Alonso starts launching bombs over the Green Monster, it’s going to sting. Yankees fans will rightfully ask why their team, with all its resources, wasn’t aggressive enough. It’s hard to imagine Hal Steinbrenner trying to spin that kind of failure into something positive, but hey, maybe he’ll throw in a free Yankees hat with his $550 million offer and call it a day.  

And you wonder why I lose my mind every day with the leadership of this team.  My head's about to explode.

LET'S NOT FORGET TONY FERNANDEZ & HIS TIME IN THE BRONX

Tony Fernández was more than just a baseball player; he was an artist on the field, a magician with the glove, and a professional to his core. His career spanned nearly two decades, and while he’ll always be most closely tied to the Toronto Blue Jays, his time in pinstripes proved that greatness has no home—it travels wherever the player goes.

It’s hard not to marvel at Fernández’s early career. With the Blue Jays, he was unstoppable, setting records, winning Gold Gloves, and dazzling fans with his smooth, almost effortless style of play. His bat was no slouch, either—hitting over .300 four times and leading the league with 17 triples in 1990. When the Jays traded him to the Padres in 1991, it felt like the end of an era. But for Fernández, it was just another chapter in a story that was far from finished.

He bounced around a bit after that, playing for the Padres and Mets before a trade brought him back to Toronto in 1993. It was a homecoming, and Fernández didn’t disappoint. He was instrumental in helping the Blue Jays clinch their second World Series, driving in nine runs in the Fall Classic—a record for shortstops. But after another stint with the Blue Jays and a solid year with the Reds, it was time for something new. 

In 1995, Fernández signed with the New York Yankees, and his journey took a turn into pinstripe history.

Joining the Yankees in the mid-90s meant stepping into a team on the verge of something special. Fernández, already a veteran, brought stability and leadership to the shortstop position. And while Derek Jeter was looming in the minors, the Yankees weren’t about to hand the job to a kid fresh out of AAA. Fernández was exactly what they needed—proven, reliable, and still capable of magic.

One of those magical moments came on September 3, 1995, in the Bronx. Fernández put on a show, going 4-for-5 against the Oakland A’s and hitting for the cycle.

 

It was the kind of performance that reminded everyone why Tony Fernández was a star. Only 10 players in Yankees history had done it before him, and his cycle felt like a moment of triumph in a season full of ups and downs.

Unfortunately, Fernández’s Yankees story is also intertwined with one of baseball’s most famous transitions. In spring training of 1996, Fernández suffered an elbow injury, sidelining him for the season. It was a tough break for a player who still had plenty to give, but it also paved the way for Derek Jeter to take the stage. While some players might have harbored bitterness, that wasn’t Fernández’s style. He handled the situation with the same grace and professionalism that defined his entire career.

When Fernández left the Yankees, he didn’t just walk away from a team—he left behind a legacy. He became the last player to wear the iconic No. 6 before Joe Torre donned it as manager and eventually had it retired. Even in a relatively short stint, Fernández had etched his name into Yankees lore.

The rest of his career saw him continue to play for several teams, always bringing his signature style and determination to the game. Age eventually caught up with him, as it does with all players, but Fernández never stopped being a gamer. He battled through life off the field as well, facing a diagnosis of polycystic kidney disease in 2017 with the same quiet resilience he showed in his playing days.

When Fernández passed away in 2020, it was a heartbreaking moment for baseball fans everywhere. He was more than just a player; he was a man who carried himself with dignity, a teammate who lifted those around him, and an athlete who left everything he had on the field.

Yes, he’ll always be a Blue Jays legend, but for a time, Tony Fernández was a Yankee. And in that time, he showed why he was one of the best to ever play the game. The Bronx got a glimpse of his brilliance, and it’s something Yankees fans won’t forget. He wasn’t just the guy who came before Derek Jeter. He was Tony Fernández—a player who made his mark wherever he went.

--Alvin Izzo

BYB Yankee History Contributor