New York Yankees fans everywhere can rejoice that the Clay Holmes era in the Bronx is finally over, though, Holmes was much better for the Yankees than many fans give him credit for. The righty has agreed to terms on a three-year, $38 million deal with the New York Mets as a starter. The Bronx Bombers can turn their attention to the free agent market, where there are plenty of closers to choose from. A lot of the options are the aging veterans who are likely looking to sign one or two-year contracts.

Jacob Mountz of FanSided recently predicted the Yankees would pursue San Diego Padres closer Tanner Scott, who was traded at the 2024 MLB trade deadline in a blockbuster deal between the Miami Marlins and the Padres. “Scott finished with a 1.75 ERA with 84 strikeouts through 72 innings, winning his only All-Star nod,” Mountz wrote. “Scott is seen as one of the most sought-after bullpen arms on the market this offseason. With that said, he won’t come cheap. ESPN’s David Schoenfield estimates he will sign a contract worth $54 million for four years. But with him as a closer, the Yankees can rest easy when they hand the ball to him.”

The issue with Scott is going to be the money. The Yankees are looking to bring back Juan Soto first and foremost. If general manager Brian Cashman lands Soto, there’s almost no chance that he will spend $54-plus million on a closer. Instead, Cashman would pivot to a budget option as he has to find two infielders, a few other bullpen pieces, and potentially a starting pitcher after signing Soto.