The New York Yankees, one of Major League Baseball’s most storied franchises, have faced several challenges over the past few seasons, highlighting a growing need for roster improvements to stay competitive. While they boast a talented roster, the Yankees still have significant work to do in order to crisis-proof their lineup and pitching staff, ensuring they can contend for championships in the future.
One of the primary areas the Yankees need to address is their starting pitching. While Gerrit Cole remains an elite ace, the team has struggled with consistency in the rotation, especially as aging veterans like Luis Severino and Domingo Germán have battled injuries and underperformance. The Yankees need to add another reliable starter or two, preferably someone who can provide depth and stability over a full season. Looking at the free-agent market, pitchers like Lucas Giolito or even a bounce-back candidate like Jameson Taillon could be potential fits.
Additionally, the Yankees’ bullpen, though generally solid, has had its share of ups and downs. While Clay Holmes and Jonathan Loáisiga have shown flashes of brilliance, the team’s bullpen lacks a consistent, dominant setup man or closer behind Holmes. The Yankees should prioritize adding a proven reliever to strengthen this area, ensuring they can bridge the gap between the rotation and the late innings in high-leverage situations.
On the offensive side, the Yankees need to find ways to reduce their reliance on the home run ball. Although the team has some of the most potent sluggers in the game, such as Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton, the Yankees often struggle to generate offense through other means, especially when their power hitters aren’t firing on all cylinders. They should look to add a contact hitter who can get on base consistently, set the table for the sluggers, and provide balance to an otherwise boom-or-bust offense.
The infield could also use some tweaking. While DJ LeMahieu offers versatility, the Yankees could look for a dependable shortstop who can play solid defense and provide offensive stability, especially with Anthony Volpe’s growing pains at the position. Adding another established bat at this key position would strengthen the middle of the lineup.
Lasty, staying healthy will be crucial. The Yankees have faced injuries to key players in recent seasons, and they must improve their roster’s overall durability to avoid falling short in the postseason.
In summary, the Yankees need to address their pitching depth, bolster their bullpen, balance their offense, and strengthen key infield positions. By making these adjustments, they can position themselves for another legitimate World Series run.
