Yankees' Offseason Plans Pivot After Missing Out on Juan Soto

The New York Yankees had made it clear that retaining superstar outfielder Juan Soto was their top priority this offseason. Managing general partner Hal Steinbrenner even went on a cross-country journey for a two-hour chat with Soto and his agent, Scott Boras, in hopes of securing Soto's future in the Bronx. The Yankees were prepared to dive deep into their financial resources to keep Soto, who played a pivotal role in their first World Series appearance in 15 years.

As the offseason progressed, and with several other clubs showing significant interest in Soto, the Yankees realized they couldn't afford to be unprepared. Quietly, the front office began formulating a "Plan B." This backup plan was set into motion late on Sunday when Soto agreed to a record-breaking 15-year, $765 million contract with the New York Mets.

While the Yankees waited for Soto's decision, they explored alternative options, including virtual calls with free-agent pitchers Corbin Burnes and Max Fried. Both hurlers now could become top targets for the Yankees, along with other free-agent players such as first basemen Pete Alonso or Christian Walker, outfielders Teoscar Hernández or Anthony Santander, closer Tanner Scott, or potentially a trade for the Cubs' Cody Bellinger.

At a minimum, the Yankees' offseason shopping list includes:

- A first baseman
- Another infielder (potentially a second baseman, unless Jazz Chisholm Jr. shifts there)
- Two outfielders
- Rotation help
- Relief arms

The Yankees faced stiff competition for Soto from the Red Sox, Blue Jays, and Dodgers, but their most significant threat came from Steve Cohen and the Mets. Now that Soto has crossed borough lines, the Yankees must pivot to their contingency plans and make the necessary moves to bolster their roster for the upcoming season.