General manager Brian Cashman and his staff have plenty of work this winter as they look to make 2016 a better season. The “pinstripes” did make the postseason for the first time in three years, but holes at key positions need to be fixed or it could be another three years without a chance to win a World Series.
The starting rotation is in need of help and while David Price seems the likely fix, over spending this winter on one player won’t help much, especially with plenty of quality players available on the free agent market.
CBS Sports has reported that Cashman will likely make a move to add Chicago White Sox starter Jeff Samardzija. The veteran didn’t have a great year, going just 11-13 with an ERA near 5.00, but his work ethic and competitive nature would make him a great fit in New York and his salary demands won’t be anywhere near $200 million on his next contract.
Pitching isn’t the only area of need as the Yankees must address their need at second base. Twenty-four-year-old Rob Refsnyder was brought up to the big club on September 1 and the youngster responded by hitting .302 with a couple of homers, but his lack of big game experience — and other MLB teams now having a better read on the young man — could lead the front office to acquire a veteran.
The Daily News has reported that Howie Kendrick would be a great addition as the veteran is terrific against lefties and his experience in the post season would give the NY Yankees another strong bat, something they could use in what expects to be another tough year in the AL East in 2016.
