Top 5 New York Yankees Off-Season Targets as Winter Meetings Near

The MLB winter meetings are about to begin. From Juan Soto to Cody Bellinger, there are big names that are on the list of the New York Yankees. The offseason chatter has been rather silent so far but things could be picking up steam quickly as the talks reach the final stages. So which players are the ones to look out for in these meetings?

While there is a giant shadow of Shohei Ohtani’s $500 million contract over this offseason, there is an interesting list of talent that the Yankees are pursuing. What could be their future?

Top prospects for the New York Yankees

Juan Soto

Juan Soto’s possible entry to the Bronx has every Yankees faithful excited. While the trade still has to leap over some big hurdles, including which players will the Bombers trade for Soto, the deal is a hopeful one. The Pinstripes’ need for a left-hander who can avoid getting struck out makes the Childish Bambino one of the most obvious names on the list.

Cody Bellinger

Though Cody Bellinger had a big comeback in 2023, most teams still doubt the slugger’s long-term sustainability. The chief reason is his injury record and low hard-hit rate. Still, the Yankees may at least talk to him, because he could provide them with a stable hitting average and some much-needed outfield depth.

Yoshinobu Yamamoto

The Samurai Japanese ace is linked to at least 11 MLB teams. While Yoshinobu Yamamoto is one of the most talented pitchers currently in baseball, his potential seemingly has no bounds. The 25-year-old has been reported to be quite intrigued by the prospect of pitching at Yankee Stadium. Could the Bronx squad recreate their Japanese connection with Yamamoto?

Read more: Is Juan Soto’s Future in Flux Again as Yankees Interest Peaks Following $440M Washington Snub in 2022?

Jordan Montgomery

The former Yank has found a career rebirth since leaving New York. The Bombers would want to have strong depth in their starters’ lineup after they suffered immensely due to injuries in 2023. Monty is a beloved figure in the clubhouse as well as the general fanbase. He could bring back much-needed positivity to the Bronx, given his recent World Series-winning past.

Jung-ho Lee/ Shota Imanaga

The Pinstripes could go after the 25-year-old Jung-ho Lee who has taken South Korea by storm. The slugger has quickly established himself as a huge hitting threat, which might bear fruit for a long time to come. On the other hand, Shota Imanaga is a Samurai Japan pitcher who could provide much-needed additional cover to the bullpen. These would be low-cost high potential signings.

So with this many targets, the New York Yankees are sure to have a long but interesting offseason ahead.

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