The Yankees’ offseason has been anything but quiet behind the scenes-and if a few things had broken differently, we might be talking about a very different outfield in the Bronx right now.
Luis Robert Jr. Was the Yankees’ Plan B-Until He Wasn’t
Before Cody Bellinger found his way back to pinstripes, the Yankees were eyeing a right-handed pivot: Luis Robert Jr. According to recent reports, New York had meaningful conversations with the White Sox about acquiring the dynamic center fielder.
This wasn’t just a passing thought-there were real internal discussions about making a move. But that possibility vanished the moment Robert was dealt to the Mets.
Now, how close the Yankees actually got to landing Robert remains a bit murky. It’s always tough to separate genuine interest from strategic leverage in trade talks. But what’s clear is that Brian Cashman had a contingency plan in place if Bellinger didn’t return-and Robert was at the heart of it.
There’s no mystery to Robert’s appeal. When healthy, he brings a rare blend of power and athleticism, with a right-handed bat that punishes left-handed pitching.
He’s capable of playing center field or sliding into a corner spot, which would’ve given the Yankees some serious flexibility-especially when it comes to managing Jasson Domínguez’s workload. Whether Robert would’ve been a full-time starter or part of a rotation is unknown, but his skill set would’ve added a dynamic element to a group still looking for the right mix.
The Search for a Right-Handed Bat Isn’t Over
Even with Bellinger back in the fold, the Yankees haven’t taken their foot off the gas when it comes to adding right-handed offense. The front office is still scanning the market, and names like Austin Slater and Randal Grichuk are reportedly high on the list. Both offer veteran experience and the ability to hit lefties-something the Yankees clearly value as they round out their roster.
If those outfield options don’t materialize, the Yankees could pivot to a right-handed first baseman. Paul Goldschmidt and Ty France remain on the radar, though neither would come cheap. Interestingly, the Yankees don’t appear to be chasing a right-handed catcher, which might say more about the market than their confidence in the current group.
Amed Rosario at First Base? Don’t Laugh-It Might Work
Here’s where things get really interesting. Instead of going all-in on a veteran like Goldschmidt, the Yankees are exploring a more creative-and cost-effective-solution: Amed Rosario at first base.
Yes, Rosario has never played the position professionally. But the Yankees are giving him real reps this spring, betting that his athleticism and infield instincts can translate across the diamond. If it works, it could reshape how the Yankees manage their roster.
Rosario already brings offensive value. Last season, in limited action, he showed strong contact skills, decent pop, and a knack for handling lefties. He’s not going to put up MVP numbers, but his ability to put the ball in play and avoid strikeouts gives the Yankees a functional alternative to a big-ticket bat-without the big-ticket price tag.
The risk, of course, is defense. First base is deceptively difficult, especially for someone who’s never played it.
But if Rosario proves even passable, Aaron Boone suddenly has a versatile piece who can move around the diamond and help balance the lineup. And if it doesn’t work?
Goldschmidt is still out there. The Yankees are essentially hedging their bets-and doing it smartly.
Two Moves That Could Finish Off the Offseason Right
Despite the perception that the Yankees have been sitting on their hands, they’re heading into the season with a franchise-record payroll. Still, there’s a sense that the roster isn’t quite finished. The big moves might be done, but a couple of smart additions could go a long way.
First, the bench. Adding a right-handed bat-Goldschmidt remains the cleanest fit-would give the Yankees a serious weapon against left-handed pitching.
It would also allow guys like Oswaldo Cabrera to settle into more natural, less demanding roles. Depth matters, especially over 162 games, and the Yankees know it.
Second, the bullpen. One name to watch: JoJo Romero.
The Cardinals’ lefty could be a sneaky-good pickup. He keeps the ball on the ground, limits hard contact, and wouldn’t cost much in terms of assets.
With a bullpen already featuring some high-leverage arms, adding a reliable middle-inning option like Romero could help stabilize the bridge to the ninth without breaking the bank.
Bottom Line
The Yankees aren’t chasing headlines-they’re chasing wins. And while the flashiest moves might be behind them, the front office is still working to fine-tune a roster that has the potential to be one of the most complete in the AL. Whether it’s a creative infield experiment or a low-profile bullpen addition, the next few weeks could quietly shape how this team performs when the games start to count.