Power ranking Yankees’ 3 high-profile first base options for 2022

1. Freddie Freeman

The best moment of Freddie Freeman’s life in Atlanta came on Nov. 2, when he hoisted the city’s first championship trophy since 1995.

Then, inexplicably, the relationship soured between the two sides, and he now enters the MLB lockout not as the Braves’ first baseman, but as our No. 1 first base target for 2022. Funny how things shake out.

Is it still somewhat unrealistic that Freeman will join up in the Bronx? Of course; a betting man would place money on Atlanta mending fences rather than the Yankees adding another $200 million contract. But as long as the 32-year-old left-handed MVP is available for money alone, he’s going to top our list of dreams. Those are the rules.

You want to tell us you’d rather have Olson because of his production/the fact we’re likely not adding Carlos Correa to the fray? Sure. We get it. But the combination of security (two years vs. six or seven of Freeman?), championship experience (recently!), steadiness, contact (137 strikeouts last year, drool), and easy power that seems likely to age well (133 OPS+ last year!) have us dreaming of the ex-Brave.

And this is a dream, right?

Essentially, Freeman blends the leadership qualities of Rizzo with the lefty pop of Olson, and he’d be bringing an edge to the Yanks after being slighted by Atlanta. Looking to defend your 2021 title, but looking to do it elsewhere? Come on, Freddie. Sign on the dotted line. And you can join Gil, Peraza and everybody else we didn’t trade for Olson in this scenario.

3 Yankees prospects who could steal roster spots at spring training

The New York Yankees are going to have some wiggle room this spring, and these three prospects might be able to steal a roster spot.