Yankees Embrace Change as Steinbrenner Charts Course for 2025 Season Success

The New York Yankees are entering the 2025 season with a mix of optimism and uncertainty as owner Hal Steinbrenner outlines his vision for the roster, notably in the wake of Juan Soto's departure to the New York Mets. Despite losing one of the top hitters in the league and a key cog in last year’s successful campaign, Steinbrenner is confident that the Yankees will be better positioned this season than they were last year. In a recent interview on YES Network's "Yankees Hot Stove," Steinbrenner emphasized improvements to the team, particularly highlighting the acquisition of left-handed pitcher Max Fried, who inked an eight-year deal worth $218 million. Fried’s addition to the rotation alongside ace Gerrit Cole is expected to fortify the Yankees’ pitching prowess. This new dynamic not only enhances the team’s run prevention capabilities but also alleviates some pressure off Carlos Rodón, who has struggled to live up to expectations since joining the Yankees. In addition to bolstering the pitching staff, the Yankees have made strategic moves to enhance their defense. The signings of Cody Bellinger and Paul Goldschmidt aim to address fundamental shortcomings that were pointed out following their World Series defeat. Steinbrenner noted that the exit of Soto and Gleyber Torres, both of whom were among the weaker defenders in their positions, could actually strengthen the overall defensive performance of the team. However, the loss of Soto and Torres is bound to impact the Yankees offensively. Soto, who had a stellar 2024 season, significantly contributed to the lineup as a key batter ahead of Aaron Judge. While Torres had a down year, his offensive output remains difficult to replace. Steinbrenner remains hopeful that the newcomers can fill this gap. He expressed confidence that Bellinger and Goldschmidt can collectively compensate for Soto’s absence, despite Goldschmidt coming off his worst season and Bellinger having a slightly above-average performance. The Yankees' bullpen is also expected to see improvements with the addition of closer Devin Williams, potentially giving the team one of the more formidable late-inning duos in baseball alongside Luke Weaver. Steinbrenner also addressed the future of manager Aaron Boone, who is entering the final year of his contract. While Boone's status remains in limbo, Steinbrenner expressed his admiration for the manager, stating that conversations regarding an extension would take place soon. Boone has led the Yankees to a strong record since taking over in 2018, including the second-best record in the American League. On the player front, exciting prospects such as Jasson Domínguez and Everson Pereira are poised to make significant contributions this season. Domínguez is expected to take over left field while Bellinger shifts to center. Boone is optimistic about Domínguez’s adaptability, believing that with a full offseason to prepare, the young player can thrive in his new role. As the Yankees gear up for the upcoming season, questions remain about the infield, particularly at second and third base. Jazz Chisholm Jr. is currently slated to fill the second base position, and a competition for third base is anticipated among DJ LeMahieu, Oswaldo Cabrera, and Oswald Peraza. LeMahieu's recent struggles and injury history raise concerns about his offensive capabilities, but Boone remains hopeful for a turnaround. With spring training on the horizon, the Yankees are at a crossroads—balancing the loss of star power with new acquisitions and promising prospects. As the franchise aims to build on its recent successes, all eyes will be on how well it can navigate these changes and adapt to the challenges ahead.