New York Yankees Editorial: Should The Yankees Keep Their Free Agents?

The New York Yankees had a season that many viewers considered to be a positive, but for fans, who expect titles every year, the season was a failure. Yankees GM Brian Cashman has very little roster flexibility, as only three players on the 40-man roster became free agents upon the conclusion of the World Series.

While none of the three players are guaranteed to be back, there is a possibility that each one returns, as all played a larger-than-initially expected role in 2015.

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Chris Young was the 4th outfielder, as expected, but ended up playing 140 games, although some were only as a late-inning defensive replacement, and picking up 356 plate appearances as he picked up plenty starts against left-handed pitchers, finishing with 14 home runs, and giving Joe Girardi a late-game substitution for Carlos Beltran‘s glove.

Girardi was so confident in Young’s ability to hit left-handed pitching that he was given the nod over the Yankees $153-million man, Jacoby Ellsbury, in the Wild Card game. Young could be back in a similar role, as the Yankees struggle against left-handed pitching, and Young provides defensive flexibility, as he can play all three outfield positions. I expect Cashman to attempt to bring Young back, but if Young can find an opportunity which offers more playing time, or a multi-year deal, then he probably won’t be back in pinstripes in 2016.

Stephen Drew entered camp battleing Rob Refsnyder and Jose Pirela for the starting job at second base. Many expected the Yankees to use a platoon at the position, but Drew played 131 games, picked up 428 plate appearances, many of which made Yankees fans cringe, although he did pick up 17 home runs, and play solid defense.

Drew is an interesting case, like Young, as he could be back, but with Brendan Ryan, who has a similar skill-set to Drew, exercising his player option it is increasing unlikely, unless the Yankees decide that Refsnyder and Dustin Ackley cannot replace Drew’s production of 2015. One way which Drew can end up back on the roster is if the Yankees release Ryan, and bring Drew back as the utility infielder.

The last of the three free agents, Chris Capuano, is the least likely to be brought back. Many were surprised to see the Yankees give Capuano $5-million, and for good reason, as he posted a 7.97 ERA in 22 appearances, including four starts. Capuano spent much of the year being shuttled between AAA and the MLB, but at 37 (turning 38 during the season), his career could be finished. If he is able to extend his career it likely won’t be in New York, as the Yankees possess an abundance of capable starters, and long-relievers.

While none of the three have a long-term role with the organization, it wouldn’t surprise me to see Young and Drew both offered contracts. As much as fans dislike Drew, he is a better option than Ryan as he can provide power, while playing strong defense. If he is brought back in a utility role, it shouldn’t upset fans nearly as much as seeing him play second base everyday.

All three are low-priority signings, and the Yankees decision to pursue each will likely be determined by what happens with the top-tier free-agents.

What do you think Yankees fans? Which of these three players, if any, should the Yankees bring back in 2016? Let us know in the comments below.

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New York Yankees Editorial: Should The Yankees Keep Their Free Agents?

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