MLB’s free agency has gotten off to a slow start. One would imagine the market will start moving once Juan Soto decides on his next team. A lot has been said about what the New York Yankees could do if the outfielder doesn’t return to the Bronx. But what if he does? Retaining Soto would keep him and Aaron Judge together in the lineup. However, there are multiple holes on the infield and pitching staff that general manager Brian Cashman needs to address.
Relief pitcher Luke Weaver emerged as a legitimate late-game hurler for New York. He went 7-3 with a 2.89 ERA, 0.93 WHIP and 103 strikeouts in 84 innings. He could use some support since two-time All-Star Clay Holmes is a free agent and seems unlikely to return on a new deal. There are several intriguing relievers available via free agency and the trade market who Cashman could pursue. One name not yet mentioned seriously is Mason Miller. The Athletics aren’t planning on trying to trade him this offseason, but that desire can change quickly depending on the situation.
FanSided’s Zach Pressnell put together a blockbuster three-player swap to bring Miller to the Bronx: – Yankees receive: right-handed pitcher Mason Miller – Athletics receive: Outfielder Jasson Dominguez and right-handed pitcher Will Warren
Pressnell did provide a caveat – he created this deal with the idea that Soto stays in the Bronx for the next 10-plus years. If he signs elsewhere, it would be harder to justify trading Dominguez. This is a steep price for the Yankees to pay. MLB.com ranked Dominguez the organization’s top prospect, while Warren finished the year fifth overall. However, Miller would fortify the backend of New York’s rotation for the foreseeable future. The hurler won’t be eligible for free agency until 2030 and is estimated to make $800,000 next season because he’s not yet eligible for arbitration.