After that disaster of a World Series, the New York Yankees just want one thing—resign Juan Soto! He has been an incredible star, and we especially saw him shine in the postseason. So for the team, keeping him in pinstripes is all that matters. But with the Yankees having lost and Soto immediately, in a press statement, saying—he is open to talking to all teams during the off-season.

Hence, it is a real possibility that Juan Soto might just walk away from the New York Yankees. Moreover, seven teams with big budgets are after him. As such, if Soto leaves, Brian Cashman needs a backup plan. And we know by now that one famous choice is none other than Pete Alonso. He is one of the top hitters on the market, and with the Mets going full force after Soto, they might not go for their homeboy Alonso. But some insiders, like broadcaster Michael Kay, aren’t sure about the Mets star in pinstripes.

Michael Kay suggests an alternative to Soto for the New York Yankees

It’s known that Alonso has a huge Mets fan following, so they might keep both him and Soto to begin with. Also, while bringing Pete Alonso makes a lot of sense for the Yanks, not everyone like Michael Kay is excited to get a 30-year-old first baseman—someone who has had a rather lackluster season to begin with.

“I appreciate Pete Alonso as a player, but why would the Yankees do that? How is that their Plan B? That doesn’t make sense to me. A right-handed batter that they’re going to have to spend six-to-seven years for. He’s 30 years old; why would you do that?” For Kay, this does not fit with Yankee and their left-field plan. Kay has an alternative and suggests Nolan Arenado instead.

Kay mentioned that the New York Yankees should consider bringing in Arenado, proposing the Cardinals eat $12-$15 million of his $31 million owed over the next few years. “This guy is a pro. Now he’s probably on the downside. Yeah, but still. I will take my chance on Arenado,” said Kay. For the broadcaster, despite the downside, Arenado is a platinum-level defender. However, Arenado might be an appealing choice, but given his current form, it might be questionable.

Can Arenado fill Juan Soto’s shoes?

Sure, Michael Kay’s suggestion might seem intriguing, but well, let’s face the reality—replacing Juan Soto won’t be easy. But that being said, Arenado is a proven legend on the field, and he has plenty of accolades, like 10 gold gloves, that could help him land in Cooperstown. His numbers, too, are great. He has a.285 average, 341 home runs, and 1,826 hits. But there is a catch!

His offensive numbers are sliding. Since 2024, he has just averaged about 21 home runs and 82 RBIs, and these numbers are too low to compete against Soto’s massive ones. No doubt, though, Nolan Arenado is still a great player. But he is entering his 30s, and like other aging players, his best years are now behind him. In a more rational world, the Yankees seem better off with Juan Soto. He is way younger, just 26, and has a chunk of his youth still left. Not to mention, Soto’s rapport with Aaron Judge, the star of their club, has been great. But hey, if the New York Yankees can work a deal with the Cardinals and get Arenado, all the while keeping their options open—it gives depth to the lineup.

So what do you think—Arenado for the New York Yankees or not? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.