Predicting destinations for Yankees' 2023-24 free agents (and 1 they should bring back)

Free Agent: Harrison Bader

Prediction: Yankees (But Maybe They Shouldn't...), Three Years/$48 Million

At this price, the Yankees should consider re-upping with Bader, even though his injury history could bite them in the years to come. While the bat has been occasionally potent and clutch, speed and defense are his true calling cards, and those don't typically increase after a player reaches 30.

If Bader requires a four-year commitment, despite his recent stumbles, or more money? The Yankees should walk away and thank the Bronxville native very much for an enjoyable year.

It's all about the hometown discount in this particular conversation. If Bader wants to offer one -- and maybe he should -- there could be some middle ground to be found. The Yankees have Spencer Jones, Jasson Dominguez and Everson Pereira incoming, but they have an insane dearth of big-league outfield depth at the moment. Sending your most athletic big-league outfielder to the curb is a bold move (even if it makes solid sense).

Whatever this conversation ultimately turns into, the Yankees should absolutely extend Bader the qualifying offer. If he wants to run it back for a prove-it year, at a similar price to what his extension might cost per season, that would be a good fit for both sides.