As the start of the 2023 MLB season approaches, rumors are swirling about potential moves by various teams. Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic reports that it would take a "Juan Soto-type package" for the Pittsburgh Pirates to consider trading All-Star outfielder Bryan Reynolds, who is under contract until 2026. The Los Angeles Dodgers are rumored to be interested in acquiring Reynolds, due in part to his $6.75 million salary, which would help the team stay under the Competitive Balance Tax threshold. The Dodgers also have a strong farm system that could potentially make them a viable option for the Pirates.
In addition to potential trades, there are still some free agents on the market who could bolster teams' rosters for the upcoming season. One player to watch is Jurickson Profar, a 29-year-old infielder/outfielder who has spent the past three seasons with the San Diego Padres. MLB.com mentions that Profar could be a part of the New York Yankees' plan to strengthen their left field options. Jim Bowden of The Athletic also notes that Profar is a "real possibility" for the Colorado Rockies, who are seeking a left-handed hitter to potentially serve as a leadoff hitter. The switch-hitting Profar could be a good fit for this role on a Rockies team that has been relatively quiet during the offseason.
One Hurdle that The Yankees need to address, if they decide to turn their attention to the free agent market again. Freeing up salary, they would have to do so if they somehow land Reynolds. It has been reported that the team Reynolds lands on, he would like to stay longterm. So keep in mind, Yankees are ready for that kind of investment.
Either move a player like Josh Donaldson, Aaron Hicks. Or get creative in other ways.
The Yankees want to stay below the $293M “Steve Cohen tax” threshold (they are at $290M.)
If they can't land Reynolds, the following targets require salary space to be freed. From Free Agent Market / Trade Market. From Lowest to Highest
Profar (Would Take Hicks Trade $)
Kepler (Would Take Hicks Trade $)
Trout (Would Take Donaldson Trade $)
Have no doubt, The Yankees are not starting The season how their current situation looks. The Yankees desperately need another "big bat." They prefer a LH bat in LF, but that could easily be fixed if they trade away a RH at another position and replace that position with a LH.
