MLB insider pinpoints the Yankees biggest needs over the winter

The New York Yankees were dealt a huge blow on Monday when it was announced that Cody Bellinger had opted out of his contract. He will test the open market and should acquire a ton of interest over the winter. 

This is a move that should not shock many. Bellinger is coming off an incredible season where he hit .272/.334/.480 with 29 home runs and 98 runs batted in. 

However, that is not the only player who became a free agent in the Bronx. Trent Grisham is also a free agent after his strong 2025 season, and the club has five relievers who are set to hit the open market, among a few others.

MLB insider pinpoints the Yankees biggest needs over the winter

Like other offseasons, the Yankees are expected to be major players, but the question is for whom? The Athletic's Jim Bowden reveals what he believes will be the front office's focus this offseason. 

"However, for Tarik Skubal or Freddy Peralta, they might be open to trading from their pitching surplus. Devin Williams and Luke Weaver are free agents, and improving the quality and depth of the bullpen is a key need for the Yankees," said Bowden. 

"If they can't re-sign Cody Bellinger, they would miss his bat and positional flexibility too much. If they can't retain Bellinger, they should take a run at Kyle Tucker. He's a complete player and would be a huge addition, especially given the short porch in right field at Yankee Stadium."

Bowden believes that trading for a frontline starting pitcher could be in the future for the Yankees. They could look at what it would take to acquire either Tarik Skubal or Freddy Peralta. 

Offensively, the key should be to re-sign Cody Bellinger. However, if that does not come to fruition, the team could take a swing at acquiring Kyle Tucker to give the outfield and offense a boost. 

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