After losing Juan Soto to free agency, the Yankees have taken a puzzle-piece approach to assembling their roster, leaning heavily on short-term deals to stay competitive in the American League. It’s a bold strategy, built on the hope that a collection of “one-year wonders” can form a cohesive, championship-caliber team. While the upside is undeniable, the clock is ticking for some of these key additions.
MLB: Detroit Tigers at Chicago Cubs, yankees, cody bellinger Patrick Gorski-Imagn ImagesPatrick Gorski-Imagn Images
Cody Bellinger: Playing for Dollars
Cody Bellinger’s addition was one of the most intriguing moves of the offseason. The 29-year-old outfielder signed a deal that included a 2025 and 2026 player option before having a decent 2024 campaign. But let’s be real—if Bellinger puts together another stellar season, he’s likely opting out to secure a long-term payday.
Last year, Bellinger slashed .266/.325/.426 with 18 home runs and 72 RBIs, good for a 109 wRC+. Solid numbers, but not quite his MVP-level peak. The Yankees are banking on a return to form, especially since his lefty swing could thrive in Yankee Stadium. If Bellinger can push his wRC+ closer to 120 and provide stellar defense in center field, he’ll be one of the most sought-after players in free agency next winter.
Paul Goldschmidt: One Year to Shine
The Yankees also brought in Paul Goldschmidt, a veteran slugger on a one-year, $12.5 million deal. Goldschmidt is coming off a down season by his standards, hitting .245/.302/.414 with 22 home runs and 65 RBIs. His 100 wRC+ marked the first time in years he’s been just an average hitter.
At 37, Goldschmidt is no longer the offensive juggernaut who won the NL MVP just two years ago, but his glove and leadership still hold value. The Yankees are hoping a change of scenery can rekindle his bat for one more impactful season. Goldschmidt could be a stabilizing force in the heart of the lineup, but the team is also aware they’re only renting him for 2025.
Devin Williams: Elite Relief on Borrowed Time
Devin Williams, one of the crown jewels of the Yankees’ offseason moves, is entering the final year of arbitration before becoming a free agent. The 30-year-old closer is coming off another great season, boasting a 1.25 ERA with 15.78 strikeouts per nine innings over 21.2 innings pitched. His devastating changeup is one of the most unhittable pitches in baseball, making him a cornerstone of the bullpen.
But like Bellinger and Goldschmidt, Williams is a short-term solution. If the Yankees don’t lock him up long-term, he could leave a massive hole in the bullpen by 2026. For now, he’s the high-leverage arm they’ll rely on to close out tight games.
A Championship or Bust Mentality
This patchwork strategy comes with significant risks. The Yankees are banking on a group of players, most of whom are essentially on expiring deals, to gel quickly and perform at their peaks. While it’s a clever way to patch the holes left by Soto’s departure, it also puts immense pressure on the front office to nail every move.
The plan might work brilliantly for one season, but the future beyond 2025 remains uncertain. The Yankees have essentially built a house of cards—strong enough to contend, but fragile if any one piece falters. For now, it’s a gamble they’re willing to take, but the payoff will need to come quickly.
