The New York Yankees have concluded their pursuit of high-profile free agents, as confirmed by a source familiar with the team's situation. Prominent players like Pete Alonso and Alex Bregman remain available among the 164 free agents left, with pitchers and catchers reporting to spring training camps in less than 40 days.
After losing star slugger Juan Soto to the New York Mets for a staggering 15-year, $765 million deal, the Yankees shifted their focus to securing other key talents. They added Max Fried, a pitcher signed for eight years at $218 million, and first baseman Paul Goldschmidt for one year at $12.5 million. The team also re-signed reliever Jonathan Loáisiga.
In addition to those signings, the Yankees made significant trades, acquiring outfielder Cody Bellinger from the Chicago Cubs for $25 million, along with closer Devin Williams from the Milwaukee Brewers for $8.4 million this season. The team has also been active in the market, looking for a mid-level left-handed reliever while contemplating a trade for starter Marcus Stroman, who carries an $18.3 million contract.
Despite these movements, the Yankees appear not to be pursuing Japanese sensation Roki Sasaki, who is expected to sign with a West Coast team. Currently, New York holds a $270.6 million commitment to 13 players for luxury tax purposes, placing them second in overall spending behind the Los Angeles Dodgers.
After falling to the Dodgers in the 2024 World Series, the Yankees remain the favorite in the American League. However, they have lost several key players, including Anthony Rizzo and Gleyber Torres. As various teams in the AL adjust their spending, the Yankees look to solidify their roster for the upcoming season.
