Former Yankees outfielder (and perfect free agent fit) signs in unfortunate spot

While the Winter Meetings have mostly been quiet as executives get acquainted, it seems like only former Yankees outfielders are coming off the board.

First, Juan Soto shook the floor of the Hilton Anatole by agreeing to a record-pummeling $765 million contract that sent the Yankees sprinting for backup plans, and has left them connected to seemingly every name on the market, from Teoscar Hernández to Devin Williams. Then, while attempting to get in touch with somebody, anybody, the White Sox came and swept up someone who could've been a nice part of the infrastructure.

Mike Tauchman, recently non-tendered by the Chicago Cubs, seemed like a perfect fit for the role occupied by Trent Grisham last year in the Bronx. He filled in for Aaron Judge, then partnered up with him while emerging as a surprising force back in 2019. He helped breathe fire into a franchise that needed a lift after the Red Sox 2018 title. If not for a hamstring issue at Fenway in September, the Yankees' playoff run might not have stalled in Houston.

Only two snags, though. One, Trent Grisham isn't going anywhere; in fact, until the Yankees make moves, he's plugged in as the starter. Second snag? Tauchman signed with the White Sox late Monday night, and will stay in Chi-Town.

Yankees lose outfield target Mike Tauchman to Chicago White Sox

Perhaps it was destiny. Tauchman, who grew up in Palatine, IL and went to college in Peoria, will now stay within the city sports scene he was raised on. He's got an affinity for Chicago pizza over New York's options. As a backup option with the Cubs the past two years, he posted a .360 OBP, and out-WAR'd every outfield carryover the White Sox were bringing into 2025 (including Luis Robert Jr.) last year. Chicago seems like a natural fit, in retrospect. At least until the trade deadline.

Maybe the Yankees can re-engage then, if their platoon options aren't working out, or if Jasson Dominguez stumbles (please don't stumble). Unfortunately, there will not be a homecoming until then -- although Chicago's his actual home anyway.