In theory, the New York Yankees do not need an outfielder. With the trio of Aaron Judge, Aaron Hicks, and Clint Frazier, New York’s outfield would seem to be in good hands. The same could be said at designated hitter, with Giancarlo Stanton holding down that spot in the lineup. Mike Tauchman is on hand to back up all of those areas. However, injuries are a concern for Judge, Hicks, and Stanton, making outfield depth a priority.
Nonetheless, the Yankees have their sights set on a well known target. They are reportedly amongst the teams showing interest in Yasiel Puig.
Yasiel Puig an interesting fit for the Yankees
Puig is not the only outfielder the Yankees have been linked to this offseason. They have also been listed as a possible destination for Marcell Ozuna as well. And it is possible that fan favorite Brett Gardner could return for one more tour of duty.
After missing the 2020 season due to a positive COVID test, Puig certainly has something to prove. His most recent season in the majors was somewhat disappointing, as he posted a .267/.327/.458 batting line with 24 homers and 30 doubles while stealing 19 bases between the Reds and Indians in 2019. While those are solid enough numbers, his 99 OPS+ was just below average.
It is possible that Puig could be a bargain signing, someone that would allow New York to focus on adding to their starting rotation. Teams may not be willing to spend much on the former All Star, leading to a one year deal for him to prove that he has something left in the tank. On that end, Puig would be a fit.
But the Yankees have other needs. Shoring up the rotation should be at the forefront of that list, as there are plenty of question marks following Gerrit Cole. There are plenty of outfielders available that could provide the depth that they need at minimal cost.
The New York Yankees are amongst the teams linked to free agent outfielder Yasiel Puig. He just does not seem to be the right fit considering the questions on the roster.