The Yankees bowed out of the postseason derby two rounds earlier than last year. So naturally we have some suggestions (plus a scout’s view):
1. The outfield
Scout’s view: “[Cody] Bellinger seems to love NY and performed decent. … Don’t trust [Trent] Grisham. He’s like a medium bullpen guy — one year good, next year he could be [bad]. … Martian [Jasson Domínguez] stinks in LF. [But] I wouldn’t give up on Martian. Real hitting talent there.”
My take: Bellinger was outstanding defensively, very good with the bat (even against lefties) and word is he does love New York. He’s a keeper. They should have a decent chance, though the Mets may be an even better fit. Grisham might get the $22 million qualifying offer, but this was a career year. I’d pass, with big prospect Spencer Jones a viable center field candidate and Domínguez another possibility (he has to be better than in left field). Consider Harrison Bader, who’s right-handed and loves the spotlight (his best performances were in the playoffs with the Yankees and down the stretch with the Phillies).
2. Hitters
Scout’s view: “Prioritize a couple position players who don’t strike out and have better plate discipline.”
