The New York Yankees have several players from their 2024 roster on the free agent market. The biggest name to watch is Juan Soto, but the Yankees also have another outfielder on the market, Alex Verdugo.
The left-handed hitting outfielder did not have the season he hoped for. He was a great defensive player, but the veteran had a forgettable season on the offensive side of the ball.
As a result, the Yankees are likely to move on from him. Jasson Dominguez’s cheap contract makes the selection easier, as he is available for every game.
Pete Caldera of NorthJersey.com predicted this to be the case.
“Verdugo regained a measure of value in postseason, but it’s time to see what the promising Dominguez can deliver on a full-time basis – though he needs work on his outfield defense,” Caldera tweeted on the first of November.
Yankees ‘Cannot’ Have Verdugo
The New York Yankees’ fan base initially adored Verdugo. However, the city expects players to do what is necessary on the pitch. Verdugo was well-liked by his teammates, despite his occasional poor performance.
He arrived in the Yankees’ clubhouse every day, ready to go, and brought a lot of energy.
While that is always a wonderful thing to have, leaving due to his play and Dominguez appears to be a simple decision. So much so that Zachary Rotman of FanSided believes he “cannot” make the team in the upcoming season.
“For much of the season, Yankees fans wondered why Alex Verdugo was starting in the outfield when the team’s top prospect, Jasson Dominguez, appeared MLB-ready. We can debate whether Verdugo should have started the entire postseason, but there is no denying that Verdugo’s time in the Bronx should be over. There just isn’t room for him anymore.
“Whether in left or center field, Dominguez must be considered an everyday player somewhere in the outfield. “New York hopes Aaron Judge and Soto will fill the other two spots, but that remains to be seen,” Rotman wrote on November 16. “Whether Soto comes back or not, though, that third spot cannot be Verdugo’s.”
Verdugo Contract Prediction
The 28-year-old may not have the best market due to his downsizing, but he should find a new home this winter. The New York Yankees could even be the team to bring him back if they can get him at a low cost.
Jim Bowden of The Athletic believes the Yankees will be a good fit for him again in 2025, with a two-year, $26 million contract.
“Alex Verdugo is well-liked and respected by his teammates, adds a lot of enthusiasm to the clubhouse, plays aggressively, and is a great left field defender. Offensively, he had a dismal season, hitting only.233/.291/.356,” Bowden said on October 31. “His power is quite constant, with between 11 and 13 home runs over the last five complete seasons. He plays every day, never complains, and is the epitome of a typical major league player.”
