The New York Yankees fell short in the 2024 World Series. Can the now-reigning American League champions return to the Fall Classic in 2025? That question will be better answered after what should be a very interesting offseason in the Bronx.
New York faces some critical personnel decisions in the weeks ahead. Here is a look at three players who could impact New York’s chances of being the AL favorite again next season, as well as the questions surrounding their return.
Can the Yankees keep Juan Soto?
It wasn’t long after the final out of the 2024 World Series that Soto began answering questions about his 2025 plans. He made it clear that he is open to being “available for all 30 teams,” setting up what should be a bidding war between the Yankees and other deep-pocketed franchises for his services.
Soto proved his value again during the regular season and also reminded every MLB executive that he is fit for the bright lights of October. Soto reached base four times in Game 5 of the World Series, extending his on-base streak in postseason games to 25. During that streak, Soto is slashing .297/.414/.549 with six homers and 18 walks.
Having just turned 26, Soto is a generational talent. Does his future include a long-term stay with the Yankees?
Is Gleyber Torres the answer at second base?
The 27-year-old Torres will likely test the free-agent market this offseason, and he is expected to be a hot commodity after putting together a career slash line of .265/.334/.441 over 888 games played in seven seasons with the Yankees.
Like many of the Yankees, Torres struggled at the plate during the World Series, slashing just .143/.250/.333 and seeing his 16-game on-base streak snapped in Game 5 with an 0-for-5 performance.
However, Torres proved he could handle the leadoff position for the Yankees this season and be a productive table-setter for the rest of the lineup. Will that and his potential for the next few seasons be enough for the Yankees to spend the dollars to keep him?
How important is Clay Holmes in the bullpen?
Holmes’ ERA jumped almost a full run (from 2.77 to 3.75) in the second half of the 2024 season as Luke Weaver took over closer duties.
Holmes has been an instrumental part of the Yankees bullpen for three-plus seasons (making 220 appearances), but will New York be willing to match what other teams will offer for the 31-year-old right-hander?
The Yankees will likely look at potential replacements for Holmes before deciding if he is worth the money as a set-up man and potential closer if Weaver were to falter.