NEW YORK YANKEES (84-78), 4TH, AL EAST
uSeason snapshot: After advancing to the postseason last year, the Yankees were a disappointment this season. But for a team that appeared moribund and lifeless for most of the first half, the Yankees showed surprising spark late in the year. That spark can be tied directly to what appeared to be a trade-deadline fire sale coupled with the jettisoning of aging superstar Alex Rodriguez. When the Yankees traded Carlos Beltran, who had been their most productive hitter, and pitchers Andrew Miller, Aroldis Chapman and Ivan Nova, it allowed them to restock what had been a fallow farm system and open up playing time for several young stars, such as catcher who hit 20 home runs in 52 games after getting called up Aug. 3. The late-season youth movement gave a glimpse of the future — unless some of the youngsters are used as trade chips.
uWhat who had been so strong as part of the Yankees’ three-headed bullpen monster, took over as the closer after the other two were dispatched. But with five blown saves in 17 chances, he might be better suited for a setup role. With longtime first baseman Mark Teixeira retiring, another opportunity could open for one of the many youngsters the Yankees have banging on the door. The Yankees will have decisions to make in their rotation. could be back after his $25 million option vested, unless the team opts for a $5 million buyout, along with and but they all had physical issues.
might get another shot at starting despite an excellent late-season run in the bullpen.
uFree agent focus: The Yankees need to upgrade their bullpen. Perhaps they could engineer a reunion with Chapman as their closer, allowing Betances to return to his setup role, or make a run at Kenley Jansen, who was 47-for-53 in save opportunities for the Los Angeles Dodgers this season. But Jansen would cost them a draft pick, and Chapman would not. They might look to add a starter, too.
uProspects to watch: Sanchez is leading the youth movement. Highly regarded first baseman should be back from injury. Right fielder and outfielder-first baseman made history this season when they became the first teammates to hit back-to-back homers in their first major league at-bats. The 2017 roster could include players the Yankees got from their midseason deals.
Maureen Mullen