The Yankees are expected to make David Bednar a qualifying offer but are unlikely to do the same for Jazz Chisholm Jr., according to Jon Heyman of the New York Post (paid subscription). I want Bednar back, but $23.15 million for one year is a lot to commit to a closer. If they let Jazz go, saving money at second base only helps if they put it toward making the lineup better.
Roster possibility Boone left the door open to Luis García Jr. returning to the middle infield, and Brendan Kuty of The Athletic wondered whether that could mean second base next year. I like the idea of getting his bat in there without tying up first base and DH, but he has to be able to…
Bryan Hoch of MLB.com reports that Brian Cashman has agreed in principle to a new contract and will begin his 30th season as Yankees general manager. The Yankees are choosing the same leadership again, so this winter has to be about fixing the roster’s weak spots instead of selling patience after another early October exit.
Anthony Volpe may have played his way back into the Yankees’ plans, with second base a possible home next season, writes Greg Joyce of the New York Post. I’m pulling for him, but a strong finish has to turn into something we can count on over a full season.
Bryan Hoch of MLB.com lists Ryan Jeffers and Tyler Stephenson as potential catching upgrades for the Yankees. I’d rather pay for someone who can compete for starts than fill the backup spot just to give the starter a day off. Make them earn the playing time; we shouldn’t be handing anyone a job.
Chris Kirschner at The Athletic (paid subscription required) predicts Trent Grisham won’t return and argues the Yankees should move on after his struggles at the plate and in the field. He also questions whether Spencer Jones is ready to take over center field every day. I’m fine moving on from Grisham, but I don’t want…
Wells, Bellinger and Caballero are AL Gold Glove finalists, according to Greg Joyce of the New York Post. Bellinger led all left fielders with 21 defensive runs saved, so that nomination should surprise nobody. I still want more offense from Wells, but his work behind the plate has to count when we talk about what…
