The New York Yankees, after a disappointing end to their 2024 season with a World Series loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers, face a critical offseason to bolster their roster and compete in 2025. The Dodgers, their recent conquerors, have already begun reinforcing their lineup, putting pressure on the Yankees to make significant moves to keep pace. The pursuit of star outfielder Juan Soto remains a priority, but addressing other needs, specifically bolstering their pitching rotation, is equally crucial. One potential target identified by baseball insider Jim Bowden is Dodgers pitcher Jack Flaherty.
Bowden’s projection envisions the Yankees acquiring Flaherty on a three-year, $52 million contract, an average annual value of just under $17.4 million. This move would not only strengthen the Yankees’ rotation but also weaken a direct competitor. The Yankees had previously expressed interest in Flaherty at the trade deadline but backed off due to concerns about his lower back. However, if the Yankees are now satisfied with his medical condition, signing Flaherty in free agency eliminates the need to sacrifice valuable prospects in a trade. Flaherty’s 2024 season, highlighted by a 13-7 record, a 3.17 ERA, and 194 strikeouts over 162 innings, demonstrates his potential value to the Yankees’ rotation.
While Bowden’s proposed contract seems financially attractive for the Yankees, the actual cost of acquiring Flaherty is likely to be significantly higher. The recent three-year, $67 million deal signed by Luis Severino sets a new benchmark for starting pitchers. Given Flaherty’s performance and age (29), it’s reasonable to expect him to command a salary comparable to or exceeding Severino’s $22.3 million annual average. Therefore, the $52 million figure predicted by Bowden seems unrealistic. While the Yankees might be willing to invest significantly in Flaherty, they’ll need to carefully evaluate the financial implications and potential long-term impact on their payroll.
The Yankees’ interest in Flaherty highlights their need to improve their starting pitching depth. While acquiring a top-tier starter remains a priority, adding a reliable and proven arm like Flaherty could significantly strengthen their rotation and provide stability. His ability to consistently pitch deep into games and rack up strikeouts makes him an attractive option. However, the Yankees must weigh the potential risks associated with his previous back issues and ensure that he is a suitable long-term investment.
Beyond Flaherty, the Yankees face a multifaceted challenge in the upcoming offseason. Securing Juan Soto’s signature remains a top priority, but the competition for his services will be fierce and costly. Soto is projected to command a record-breaking contract, potentially exceeding $700 million, pushing the Yankees’ already substantial payroll even higher. Balancing the pursuit of Soto with other roster needs will require careful financial maneuvering.
In addition to starting pitching and a potential Soto acquisition, the Yankees may also need to address other areas on their roster. Bolstering their bullpen, adding depth to their infield, and potentially finding a designated hitter are all areas that could require attention. The Yankees will need to strategically allocate their resources to address these needs while staying within a reasonable budget. The upcoming offseason promises to be a busy and crucial period for the Yankees. Their success in 2025 will depend on their ability to make shrewd moves, navigate the free-agent market effectively, and construct a balanced and competitive roster capable of challenging for a World Series title. The pressure is on for the Yankees to make the right decisions and avoid being left behind in the ever-competitive American League East.
