MLB Rumors: Yankees Eye Three Free Agents If Juan Soto Pursuit Fizzles

MLB Rumors: Yankees Eye Three Free Agents If Juan Soto Pursuit Fizzles

*New York, NY – October 25, 2024* – As the New York Yankees continue their aggressive pursuit of superstar outfielder **Juan Soto**, rumors are swirling that the Bronx Bombers are also preparing for a contingency plan in case they fail to land the young phenom. Sources close to the team have indicated that the Yankees are considering several high-profile free agents to bolster their lineup if the Soto deal falls through.

The Yankees’ front office has long been linked to the **San Diego Padres** slugger, whose impending free agency has sparked interest from contenders across Major League Baseball. However, with recent reports suggesting the Padres could be hesitant to trade Soto without a significant haul, the Yankees are said to be exploring other options to stay competitive in the tough AL East.

Here’s a closer look at the three free agents the Yankees are reportedly eyeing if their pursuit of Soto hits a snag:

### 1. **Shohei Ohtani** – The Ultimate Game-Changer
The biggest name in free agency, **Shohei Ohtani**, is at the top of the Yankees’ backup plan list. Ohtani, the two-way sensation, is expected to be one of the most sought-after free agents of all time, and New York is rumored to be all-in on bringing him to the Big Apple. After undergoing Tommy John surgery earlier this year, Ohtani will be limited to a hitter-only role in 2025, but his unparalleled offensive prowess and potential to return to the mound in 2026 make him a prime target.

The Yankees, with their financial might and history of signing marquee players, are in an ideal position to make a competitive offer. Adding Ohtani to the mix could instantly boost the Yankees’ offense and give them a unique, once-in-a-generation player who can impact the game both at the plate and on the mound.

### 2. **Matt Chapman** – The Power-Hitting Third Baseman
If the Yankees decide to shore up their defense and add some power to their infield, **Matt Chapman** could be the answer. The two-time Gold Glove winner and 30-homer slugger is expected to hit the free-agent market this offseason, and the Yankees are reportedly taking a hard look at him.

Chapman would provide the Yankees with a massive upgrade at third base, a position that has been a bit of a revolving door in recent years. His elite defense, combined with his ability to hit for both power and average, would solidify the Yankees’ infield and give them a true difference-maker in the lineup. Given the Yankees’ need for more left-handed hitters and the declining production from some of their veterans, Chapman would be a perfect fit for the Bronx.

### 3. **Cody Bellinger** – A Resurgent Power Bat
The resurgence of **Cody Bellinger** has turned heads over the past two seasons, and after a stellar 2024 campaign with the Chicago Cubs, Bellinger has once again become one of the most intriguing free-agent options on the market. Known for his MVP-level production in 2019, Bellinger has shown flashes of that form, especially in 2024, hitting for power and average while providing elite defense in the outfield.

If the Yankees are unable to land Soto, Bellinger could be a more affordable alternative with a similar skill set. His left-handed bat would provide much-needed balance to the Yankees’ lineup, and his ability to play all three outfield positions gives manager Aaron Boone flexibility in shaping the lineup. Additionally, Bellinger’s playoff experience and strong postseason track record would be an added bonus for a Yankees team looking to contend immediately.

### What’s Next for the Yankees?
While the pursuit of Juan Soto remains a major storyline, the Yankees’ front office is reportedly working on several other potential moves, particularly if they cannot finalize a deal with the Padres. The franchise has been clear about its intention to retool for the 2025 season, after a disappointing finish in 2024. Whether it’s adding a transcendent talent like Ohtani, improving their defense and power with Chapman, or taking a chance on Bellinger’s resurgence, the Yankees are poised to make a splash regardless of the outcome of their Soto negotiations.

With New York’s legendary resources and aggressive front office, it’s clear that the Yankees will remain a major player in the offseason, no matter which direction they go. One thing is certain: the Bronx Bombers will be looking to bring back a championship sooner rather than later.

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