The New York Yankees have several players from their 2024 roster hitting free agency, with Juan Soto being the marquee name to watch. However, another outfielder is also on the market.
His season didn’t meet expectations offensively, although he excelled defensively. Despite his postseason contributions, the Yankees are likely to part ways with the veteran. The emergence of Jasson Dominguez, who is poised for a full-time role and offers a more budget-friendly option, makes the decision easier.
Pete Caldera of *NorthJersey.com* shared this outlook, writing on November 1:
“Verdugo regained a measure of value in postseason, but it’s time to see what the promising Dominguez can deliver on a full-time basis – though he needs work on his outfield defense.”
Yankees ‘Cannot’ Have Verdugo
The New York Yankees fanbase initially embraced Alex Verdugo, appreciating his energy and daily readiness. His presence brought a positive vibe to the clubhouse, and his teammates admired him. However, in a city that demands performance on the field, Verdugo’s struggles offensively made his standing less secure.
While his contributions to team morale were undeniable, the rise of Jasson Dominguez as a promising everyday player makes moving on from Verdugo seem inevitable. Zachary Rotman of *FanSided* expressed this sentiment, arguing that Verdugo “cannot” return for the 2025 season:
“For much of the season, Yankees fans were wondering why Alex Verdugo was starting in the outfield when New York’s No. 1 prospect, Jasson Dominguez, looked MLB-ready. We can argue whether Verdugo should’ve been starting in the postseason all day, but it cannot be argued that Verdugo’s time in the Bronx should be up. There just isn’t a spot for him anymore.
“Whether it’s in left field or center field, Dominguez has to factor in as an everyday player somewhere in the outfield. New York hopes Aaron Judge and Soto take up the other two spots, but of course, that remains to be seen. Whether Soto comes back or not, though, that third spot cannot be Verdugo’s,” Rotman wrote on November 16.
Verdugo Contract Prediction
At 28, Alex Verdugo may face a limited market this offseason due to his underwhelming 2024 campaign, but he’s expected to find a new team before long. Interestingly, the New York Yankees might even consider bringing him back if the price is right.
Jim Bowden of *The Athletic* identified the Yankees as a potential fit for Verdugo in 2025, projecting a two-year, $26 million deal:
“Alex Verdugo is well-liked and respected by his teammates, brings high energy to the clubhouse, plays with an edge and is a solid defender in left field. Offensively, he had a down season, slashing just .233/.291/.356,” Bowden wrote on October 31. “His power is pretty consistent as he has provided between 11 and 13 home runs in the last five full seasons. He plays every day, never complains and is the definition of an average major-league player.”
While Verdugo’s production dipped in 2024, his consistency, defense, and clubhouse presence may keep him on the Yankees’ radar—albeit on a more team-friendly contract.
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