The New York Yankees’ third-base situation remains an intriguing and unresolved story of the offseason. Despite having Alex Bregman and Nolan Arenado available, the Yankees have chosen a cautious path under Hal Steinbrenner. The team has thought not to go after such famous names. Such a decision, specifically after Steinbrenner’s review related to the team’s financial situation, has sparked frustration among fans.

On the contrary, the Los Angeles Dodgers have highlighted how aggressive investing can establish a roster capable of contending year after year. The Dodgers need to sign and trade for high-profile players, which contrasts sharply with the New York Yankees. Such a transformation in the Yankees’ investment habits has raised questions related to the team’s commitment to getting a championship-caliber team.

Marsh Feinstein had vital thoughts on the New York Mets’ current acquisition of Juan Soto, considering it a positive move. “Soto will definitely help,” he said; however, Feinstein does not think this move alone is enough. He highlighted that the Mets still need to make more moves and hope that some younger players step up to establish a truly competitive team. “They still need to make other moves and hope some of their young players step up,” Feinstein said, underscoring the need for more.

On the contrary, Feinstein highlighted a more optimistic view of the New York Yankees‘ offseason. Despite not signing Juan Soto, he sees the team’s pitching acquisitions as a power. “The Yankees had a successful offseason… pitching was a vital place of focus,” he said, identifying that their approach was more well-rounded. Feinstein also highlighted that Cody Bellinger likely wouldn’t have joined the team if Soto had been signed.

So, the New York Yankees’ pivot away from Soto was actually beneficial for establishing a more balanced roster. Furthermore, Marsh thinks the signing of Max Fried could not have been possible if the New York Yankees had focused on acquiring Soto, highlighting the strategic thinking behind their offseason.

Yankees’ contrasting approach to the Dodgers’ aggressive moves

While the New York Yankees have taken a more cautious approach, the Dodgers have continued to enhance their roster. The team has famous stars, like Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman, but Los Angeles has not slowed down. The team’s aggressive pursuit of Shohei Ohtani and the acquisition of Yoshinobu Yamamoto highlight their commitment to remaining at the top in contrast to the New York Yankees’ reluctance to invest. There is also a difference in leadership between the two teams when it comes to roster construction.

While the Yankees have opted for a more analyzed approach, the Dodgers have gone all-in to ensure they remain contenders in the ever-competitive NL West, which raises a vital question: Is the New York Yankees’ hesitation to get high-priced stars sacrificing quick success for long-period financial health? The Yankees have focused their investments on Aaron Judge with his $360 million contract. In addition, they signed Carlos Rodón over a $162 million deal. However, the team has shied away from adding more expensive stars.

In contrast, the Dodgers have invested aggressively, investing $700 million in Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto. While the Yankees are focusing on financial flexibility, the Dodgers’ willingness to make big moves could leave New York vulnerable. Now, with the Dodgers continuing to enhance their lineup and other teams making bold moves, the Yankees need to find a balance between long-term health as well as staying relevant in the near future.