With MLB free agency officially underway, the New York Yankees have several tough decisions to make regarding their roster. Of course, the team could make a few simple signings and return a roster like the one we saw in 2025. However, despite their unlikelihood, these three bold free agency predictions are certainly options for the Yankees to explore as well.
1. Yankees Go Full Youth Movement in Outfield
Whether it’s a reunion with Cody Bellinger or a long-term deal with Kyle Tucker, the Yankees can address their outfield in free agency in numerous ways. However, the Yankees could also explore a different route and fill the other two outfield spots with in-house names.
Both Jasson Dominguez and Spencer Jones are unproven, with the latter never having played in the majors. Still, he hit .274 with 35 home runs in the minor leagues last season. Dominguez, meanwhile, recently concluded his first full season in the Bronx. It wasn’t perfect, especially in the outfield, but the potential is alive and well.
If the Yankees elected to put Dominguez and Jones next to Aaron Judge, it would represent quite the gamble. But the Yankees have been hesitant to pay outfielders in the past, most notably with New York Mets outfielder Juan Soto in 2024. It might not be likely, but it’s certainly a possibility.
2. Division Rival Joins Yankees’ Infield
It’s rare for a player to join a division rival, but it’s even rarer when the two teams are fresh off a heated playoff series. However, if the Yankees elect not to spend in the outfield, they could allocate that money toward former Toronto Blue Jays shortstop Bo Bichette.
After three years, Anthony Volpe’s future in the Bronx looks bleak. The former first-round pick has struck out at least 150 times each season, while hitting .212 or worse in all but one. Most concerning, though, is his regressing defense. In 2025, Volpe committed 19 errors, tied for the most in the American League.
A career .294 hitter, Bichette would provide the Yankees with consistency at the plate. His defense is subpar, but the Yankees would certainly bite that bullet for more offensive production.
3. Yankees Make Splash With First Base Signing
The Yankees already have a proven first baseman in Ben Rice. Last season, Rice hit .255 with 26 home runs. He also posted an .836 OPS, which was the 29th best mark in MLB.
While Rice could remain at first base, the Yankees could move him to the full-time catcher role, thus clearing a spot at first base. Rice played catcher in the minor leagues, and he played 36 games at the position in 2025. The Yankees do have Austin Wells, but his offensive production doesn’t compare to Rice’s.
If the Yankees move Rice behind the plate, Japan’s Munetaka Murakami could fill the first base void. With 265 home runs in eight Nippon Professional Baseball seasons, Murakami would be a sensible fit for a Yankees team that led baseball in home runs in 2025.
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