Checking in on Houston’s rival
It is unfair to compare the New York Yankees to the Houston Astros, as they operate in different-sized markets, divisions, and fan cultures. However, the franchises have developed an intense and organic rivalry over the past decade, which makes sense as to why Houston fans want to keep an eye on the Bombers. So, here is a primer on the upcoming Yankees season.
Losses:
The Yankees failed to re-sign Juan Soto after he had a career year in 2024. There is no doubt that this loss hurts, but the Yankees did make some roster moves to try to soften the blow. The Yankees lost Gleyber Torres to free agency; although he had a down year in 2024, he was still a decent everyday player. Nestor Cortes was traded to the Brewers in exchange for right-handed pitcher Devin Williams. Clay Holmes, one of their primary back-of-the-pen options, was signed by the Mets. Lastly, Gerrit Cole is out for the season after undergoing TJ surgery.
Additions:
The Yankees’ big FA acquisition was signing former Braves ace Max Fried. Losing Cole still hurts, but it helps when you have the money to sign his replacement. The Yankees also added Cody Bellinger to the outfield mix. While this certainly won’t replace the loss of Soto, Bellinger has experienced a career resurgence in Chicago and will be a solid centerfielder. The Yankees added the rapidly aging Paul Goldschmidt at first base. Perhaps he will have a bounce-back year, but Father Time is a worthy opponent. Lastly, the Yankees did add Devin Williams from the trade with the Brewers. He is one of the best closers in the league, but if Cashman knew the Yankees would be without Cole for 2025, I imagine he would like to have that trade back.
Projected starters:
- Starting rotation:
- Carlos Rodon, LHP
- Max Fried, LHP
- Marcus Stroman, RHP
- Carlos Carrasco, RHP
- Will Warren, RHP
Closer: Devin Williams
This is probably a better rotation than Houston has, but the loss of Cole and Cortes is a significant blow. Rodon and Fried will make a good pair at the top of the rotation, but Stroman is coming off a year where he had a 4.62 FIP in 154 innings: he’s not a great 3rd starter. Like the Astros, the Yankees lack depth in their starting rotation.
Lineup:
- 1. Austin Wells, C (L)
2. Aaron Judge, RF (R)
3. Cody Bellinger, CF (L)
4. Paul Goldschmidt, 1B (R)
5. Jazz Chisholm Jr., 2B (L)
6. Anthony Volpe, SS (R)
7. Jasson Dominguez, LF (S)
8. Ben Rice, DH (L)
9. Oswaldo Cabrera, 3B (S)
The Yankees scored 815 runs last year; if their younger players can improve in 2025, they may have another strong season offensively. However, the loss of Soto will prevent them from being the elite unit they were last year. The X-factor of this lineup will be Jasson Dominguez. he was a highly touted prospect but has yet to put it together in the big leagues. How he develops this season will make a significant impact on New York’s season.
Conclusion:
Final prediction: Yankees win 89 games, finish second in the East behind the Orioles and are eliminated in the division round.
The Yankees are still a very strong team, but it’s hard to envision them replicating their 2024 success. Like the Astros, they have a few question marks coming out of camp; can Goldschmidt get back to his old form? Will Cabrera and Dominguez break out and prove themselves as everyday players? The beauty of baseball is that there are 162 games to answer these questions.
What do you all think? Will the Yankees have another strong season? comment below!