The New York Yankees are stumbling in the 2023 season. Starting September in last place in the AL East, the team’s record could see this year being the team’s first losing record season since 1992. But even despite all the negatives, the Bronx can hold out some hope. With some big free agents coming up in 2024, reinforcements are pretty close for the franchise, should they choose. However, The question remains: Will they sign superstar Shohei Ohtani?

Japanese exceptional talent Shohei Ohtani could change fortunes around the league. The two-way phenom presents a unique proposition for teams around the league. With the potential to improve your bullpen rotation and lineup all in one fell swoop, several teams will undoubtedly pursue the star as a signing in free agency. And with their latest move, the Yankees could have just clearly indicated their intentions with the signing.

New York Yankees Make Roster Moves to Clear Pitching Space

The New York Yankees have made a clear decision about their Trade Deadline acquisition in releasing Spencer Howard. Acquired from the Texas Rangers just last month, Howard’s stay in New York has not necessarily gone completely to plan. But the move indicates much more than just the Yankees’ intentions with their roster for this season.

Fans have retained hope that the move is not one that is meant to fully activate the roster this season but rather a slightly futuristic one. Clearing up a spot on the roster for the potential addition of 2021 AL MVP Shohei Ohtani to the roster in the off-season as a part of his free agency. Many are touting that the 3x All-Star could command as much as $700 million contract and as such, clearing space in their team and payroll will be ideal for the Bronx Bombers.

Some fans, meanwhile, are suggesting that the spot clearing presents more of an opportunity for the Yankees than the loss that many are seeing it as.

Are Yankees Poised to Elevate Emerging Talents?

The New York Yankees are in pole position now to set up for the 2024 season. Despite their losing record in 2023, the Yankees seem to have taken a more forward looking approach. With some key roster moves, that could see star prospects Austin Wells and Jasson Dominguez called up to the Pinstripes for the final stretch of the season, the Yankees seem to be preparing for 2024.

Read More: “I’ve Seen Enough”- Yankees Number 2 Prospect Jasson Dominguez Leaves Fans in Disbelief After His First Spring Training Homer

With expanded rosters in September taking the number of active players on a squad to 28, the Yankees have released several veteran talents. Many are seeing this as the perfect opportunity to mark out the emergence of the Yankees youngsters. And even though highly touted, the big leagues need some adjusting to. Giving the youngsters a run in before a full season could work out perfectly.

But the moves remain behind closed doors and yet to be seen if truly effectual for the Pinstripes. Are they setting up for Shohei Ohtani’s free agency? Or are they preparing their youngsters for a run in? The front office’s moves in the coming days will surely tell.

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