The Yankees’ offseason search for right-handed power has taken a few interesting turns, and one of the most eye-catching developments involves a name now off the board: Luis Robert Jr.
According to multiple reports, including Joel Sherman’s, the Yankees were engaged in serious talks with the White Sox about acquiring Robert before he was ultimately dealt to the Mets. That pivot plan came into focus just before Cody Bellinger re-signed in the Bronx - a move that had been hanging in the balance as the Yankees explored alternatives.
Now, it’s worth noting that while Bellinger had been loosely linked to the Mets in the final hours before Robert’s trade, The Athletic’s Will Sammon reported that the Mets never seriously pursued the outfielder. That leaves us with a fascinating "what if" scenario.
Did Brian Cashman and the Yankees truly consider moving on from Bellinger? Or was the Robert interest a pressure play to get a deal done?
We may never know for sure - but what’s clear is that the Yankees had a Plan B, and it was a bold one.
Why Luis Robert Jr. Caught the Yankees’ Eye
When healthy, Luis Robert Jr. is one of the most dynamic outfielders in baseball. His right-handed bat, especially against left-handed pitching, is a legitimate weapon - and that’s exactly what the Yankees have been seeking this winter. Even in seasons where health has limited his overall production, Robert has continued to do damage against southpaws, showcasing the kind of pop that can change a game with one swing.
For the Yankees, Robert would’ve offered flexibility. He could’ve slotted into center field or moved to a corner spot, depending on how the team wanted to align their outfield.
There’s no indication that New York was committed to taking on his full contract, or whether they viewed him as an everyday starter. But his presence would’ve created some intriguing options - including potentially shifting Jasson Domínguez into a bench or platoon role, at least in the short term.
That kind of move would’ve been a big swing - the type of aggressive, win-now maneuver we’ve seen from the Yankees in the past. But with Robert now in Queens, the focus shifts back to what’s next.
Still Shopping for Right-Handed Pop
Even with Bellinger back in the fold, the Yankees aren’t done. They’re still actively looking to add a right-handed bat to balance out their lineup, and the outfield remains a key area of interest. Names like Austin Slater and Randal Grichuk have been mentioned as potential fits - both are veterans who can handle left-handed pitching and provide depth in the outfield.
If neither of those options materializes, the Yankees could pivot to the infield. First base is another area where a right-handed bat could make an impact, and both Paul Goldschmidt and Ty France have reportedly drawn interest.
Goldschmidt, of course, would be a major addition - a former MVP with a proven track record and the kind of offensive consistency the Yankees covet. France, while not as decorated, brings a solid contact profile and could be a more cost-effective option.
A Curious Omission: Catcher
One notable absence in all of this? The Yankees haven’t shown much interest in adding a right-handed catcher.
That’s a bit surprising, given the current market and the team’s ongoing need for lineup balance. It could suggest they’re not enamored with the available options behind the plate, or that they’re comfortable rolling with what they have internally.
Either way, the message is clear: the Yankees aren’t standing pat. They’ve already made some big moves this offseason, but they’re still hunting for the right pieces to round out their roster. Whether that next addition comes in the outfield, at first base, or somewhere else entirely, expect Brian Cashman to keep working the phones - because in the Bronx, the pursuit of October never really stops.