The Yankees’ Future: Optimism Amidst Changes
After the Yankees’ tough loss to the Blue Jays in the ALDS, one has to wonder—can this year’s team really create a different ending compared to 2025?
That’s the question that Brian Cashman, Aaron Boone, and Cody Bellinger tackled on Wednesday.
They believe the key is the growth of several young players—like Cam Schritter—who, by now, are expected to have a full season under their belts after being acquired at the trade deadline last summer. More importantly, there’s hope surrounding Gerrit Cole’s return in the first half of the season.
Recall that Cole wasn’t able to play last season as he was recovering from Tommy John surgery.
His rehabilitation, along with Carlos Rodon’s, appears to be going well. This is certainly encouraging news for fans in the Bronx.
But, will this be enough for the Yankees to outshine the Blue Jays? And what about the rising Orioles and Red Sox? The competition for the AL East crown is intense.
“Success or failure, one series doesn’t define what our ability is,” Cashman remarked during a Zoom call from Tampa, reflecting on the ALDS setback. “In the postseason, it’s crucial to perform at your best, or you’ll head home early. So, while we faced the defending champions, we couldn’t finish the job when it mattered.”
Boone, reflecting on things, seemed equally hopeful.
“Honestly, I felt really good about our team going into the postseason at the end of last year,” he shared. “Sure, we lost in the divisional round. It didn’t go our way, but that doesn’t mean it won’t next time. I think we’re positioned well. But I wouldn’t guarantee we’ll rack up 94 wins again, or even 88. We do have the pieces, though.”
Additionally, sources indicated that the Yankees are keeping in touch with right-handed hitter Paul Goldschmidt, who could provide some support to left-handed pitcher Ben Rice—if the circumstances are right. There’s a persistent interest in enhancing their pitching staff, as well as possibly bringing in a right-handed hitter, with names like Randal Grichuk and Austin Slater mentioned as potential fits.
Bellinger, who joined the Yankees after being traded by the Cubs, signed a hefty five-year contract worth $162.5 million. He feels great about returning to a similar roster.
“It feels really good,” Bellinger said, insisting that he loves this group. “The chemistry we built is really special. You might not get that unless you’re inside the clubhouse. We genuinely played for each other.”
Cashman also pointed out that, notably, this roster is not exactly the same as before, as they’ve brought in new talent.
“We have some key players who are set to come back from the IL, including Gerrit Cole,” he noted.
In fact, the Yankees traded for 23-year-old right-hander Angel Chivili from Colorado on Wednesday in exchange for minor league first baseman TJ Rumfield.
There’s hope internally that the recent upgrades—especially in the bullpen with arms like David Bednar and Camilo Doval, along with improved third base defense from Ryan McMahon and depth players like Amed Rosario and Jose Caballero—will prove beneficial.
“I’ve challenged anyone who questions our championship-caliber roster,” Cashman asserted. “It’s a team effort, and it’s our responsibility to keep improving.”
