The New York Yankees are poised to welcome back Ian Hamilton, a key player in their bullpen, as he begins a rehab assignment at Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. Hamilton’s return is crucial following a troubled 2024 season plagued by injuries, in contrast to his impressive 2023 performance with a 2.64 ERA over 58 innings. His strikeout and ground ball rates were exemplary, making him an asset in the Yankee Stadium environment. However, last season saw his ERA rise to 3.82 due to inconsistent play and an unfortunate infection that delayed his recovery.

When healthy, Hamilton's repertoire includes a mid-90s fastball known for its sink, complemented by a formidable slider and change-up that keeps hitters guessing. His gritty mindset makes him a reliable option in high-pressure situations. With Jonathan Loáisiga still recovering from surgery, Hamilton's imminent return could be the boost the Yankees' bullpen desperately needs to regain its former dominance.

Clarke Schmidt, the New York Yankees' right-hander, will start the season on the injured list due to a shoulder issue, as confirmed by GM Brian Cashman. This injury adds him to a growing list of unavailable starters, including Gerrit Cole, who is out for the season after Tommy John surgery, and Luis Gil, expected to miss at least two months with a lat injury. Schmidt had a solid 2022 season, boasting a 2.85 ERA in 16 starts, but struggled this spring with a minor shoulder injury, limiting his preparation time.

Despite his injury, Cashman noted that Schmidt is improving and should not miss significant time. Another right-hander, Carlos Carrasco, is poised to seize the opportunity as a non-roster invitee, while rookie Will Warren is likely to fill the final rotation spot, despite a challenging previous season. In addition, Ian Hamilton will also begin the season on the injured list after a recent infection.

Jeff McNeil, the New York Mets' All-Star infielder, is set to begin the season on the injured list due to a strained right oblique muscle. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza confirmed that the 2022 batting champion is expected to miss three to four weeks after the injury was diagnosed as a low-grade strain. McNeil had a challenging 2022 season, hitting .238 with 12 home runs and 44 RBIs, and he experienced a broken wrist last September. The Mets are currently dealing with a string of injuries, including catcher Francisco Alvarez, who broke his hand in batting practice and is expected to be out for 6-8 weeks, along with other pitchers like Sean Manaea and Frankie Montas, and infielder Nick Madrigal, who may miss the entire season.

Ian Happ has established himself as one of the premier left fielders in the MLB, earning a third-place ranking in this season's positional evaluations by MLB Network. Despite a year marked by overall team struggles for the Chicago Cubs, Happ's performance shone brightly, culminating in a 3.9 WAR and a career-high in RBIs with 86. He also matched his personal best with 25 home runs. Known for his exceptional discipline at the plate, Happ recorded a walk rate in the 94th percentile and is consistently found in the sweet spot of the zone, making him a valuable asset offensively.

Defensively, Happ's prowess is undeniable, having secured his third consecutive Gold Glove award as the best left fielder in the National League. His consistency over the past three seasons, where he is one of just twelve players with a 120 wRC+ and a minimum of 3.0 fWAR, has solidified his role as the Cubs' everyday left fielder. The Cubs are looking to build on this with recent acquisitions, positioning Happ as a key leader moving forward.

On Tuesday, the New York Yankees' general manager Brian Cashman joined executives from 29 other MLB teams in San Antonio for the annual GM Meetings, signaling the start of the offseason discussions.

The Yankees are actively engaging with free-agent relievers, as key bullpen members Clay Holmes, Tommy Kahnle, and Tim Hill are set to hit the market. With their postseason contributions, their absence would leave a significant gap.

While the Yankees explore free agency, they may also consider trades, with two-time All-Star closer Devin Williams as a potential target. The team has a knack for finding undervalued relievers and has already secured closer Luke Weaver for next season.