3 veteran free agent fits that would greatly help Yankees clubhouse morale

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - SEPTEMBER 26: Jon Lester #34 of the Chicago Cubs during the game against the Chicago White Sox at Guaranteed Rate Field on September 26, 2020 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Quinn Harris/Getty Images)
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - SEPTEMBER 26: Jon Lester #34 of the Chicago Cubs during the game against the Chicago White Sox at Guaranteed Rate Field on September 26, 2020 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Quinn Harris/Getty Images)
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The Yankees could target these veteran players, who would fill a need and improve clubhouse morale.

Just about every offseason move in the coming weeks and months will depend on dollar figures for the New York Yankees. Look no further than how long it’s taking for a DJ LeMahieu deal to get done.

Aside from one game-breaking starting pitcher (and LeMahieu), the Yankees really don’t have to make a whole lot of transactions, but everyone would agree a few veteran additions that address key needs would be ideal. If general manager Brian Cashman can find millions of dollars under Hal Steinbrenner’s luxury couch cushions, then we’re talkin’.

The Bombers still need some infield depth, starting pitching, and help behind the plate with the unresolved Gary Sanchez situation looming over the franchise. There are a number of guys out there who could help and more than likely wouldn’t break the bank, so how about these three vets? They’d fill a roster need AND help out tremendously in the clubhouse.

After all, that 2009 World Series team wasn’t lacking eccentric veteran voices.

Yankees
Former New York Yankees third baseman Todd Frazier

3. Todd Frazier

Could a return of the ToddFather be in store for the Yankees?!

Assuming the Yankees keep Tyler Wade around for depth in the middle infield (though we can expect them to make another addition in free agency), they’re going to need some reinforcements at the hot corner because DJ LeMahieu probably isn’t going to want to keep switching positions frequently.

Enter Todd Frazier! He was a Yankee in 2017 for a short 66 games (and a playoff run to the ALCS) after coming over in a trade with the White Sox, and it’s clear his veteran presence played a role in helping this team beat the odds. His baserunning in Cleveland that helped lift the Yankees in Game 5 of the ALDS says it all.

Frazier has infectious positive energy, he’s one of the most supportive teammates we’ve seen over the last decade, and he’s your classic “Jersey guy.” The “cultural” fit in New York couldn’t be more perfect, and if he can still play a serviceable third base (we think we can), then this is a pairing that could work for a year.

The Yankees need a bigger voice given the army of reserved personalities on this roster. Let The ToddFather run his jovial mouth and the clubhouse/dugout will be much more relaxed.

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