The New York Yankees are anticipated to be busy during the offseason, with one forecast suggesting they will trade for a power hitter and a top reliever to strengthen their roster.
TheScore unveiled its 11 MLB predictions, with analyst Brandon Wilde presenting one involving a major trade between the Yankees and the St. Louis Cardinals. In Wilde’s projection, the Yankees would land third baseman and closer.
“The Yankees swing a deal to acquire third baseman Nolan Arenado and closer Ryan Helsley from the St. Louis Cardinals, addressing a pair of needs,” Wilde wrote. “Arenado isn’t the All-Star-caliber player he once was. His power numbers declined in each of the last three seasons, but he’s still an elite defender who hardly strikes out. With three years and roughly $64 million remaining on his contract, it’s an easier price tag for New York to swallow.
“Bringing in Arenado allows the Yankees to move Jazz Chisholm Jr. to either second base or center field, further aiding a defense that struggled in the postseason,” Wilde added. “Helsley is coming off a season in which he was NL Reliever of the Year. He’ll slide into New York’s closer’s role, allowing Weaver to be a setup man.”
Arenado has three years remaining on his eight-year, $260 million contract. The power-hitting third baseman would provide a significant boost to the Yankees’ lineup, while also addressing a key area of need at third base.
Helsley, on the other hand, is currently in arbitration and will become a free agent after this season. However, he would instantly strengthen the Yankees’ bullpen.
The prediction makes sense for New York, as Arenado and Helsley address two key areas of need for the Yankees.
New York is in dire need of a third baseman, and Arenado would be an ideal solution. His bat would be a valuable asset to the Yankees’ lineup.
In 2024, Arenado posted a .272 batting average with 16 home runs and 71 RBIs. Additionally, he is a 10-time Gold Glove winner and a 5-time Silver Slugger, showcasing his exceptional defensive abilities.
Helsley, meanwhile, could take over as the Yankees’ closer, potentially replacing Clay Holmes. Helsley served as the Cardinals’ closer in 2024 and was exceptional in the role, finishing the season with a 2.04 ERA and converting 49 of 53 save opportunities.
Adding Helsley would also allow the Yankees to shift Weaver into a set-up man role, further bolstering the strength of their bullpen.
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