Yankees-Anthony Santander rumors return with cryptic report

On Wednesday afternoon, following Max Fried's introductory press conference at Yankee Stadium, Yankees GM Brian Cashman said of rookie Jasson Dominguez, "I'd like to see him get his shot now." Rumors that emerged and strengthened less than 24 hours later could complicate that declaration just a bit.

The Yankees can't be done shopping offensively, and since Cody Bellinger has yet to declare a position, that means center field, left field, first base, and whichever of second/third base isn't occupied by Jazz Chisholm are technically available positions. Bellinger in left and Dominguez in center would seem to make sense, and while the newly imported Cub is plenty versatile and can handle first, signing a primary first baseman with experience to replace Anthony Rizzo seems like the logical next step.

While Yankee fans were distracted by (and becoming increasingly accepting of) the idea of Paul Goldschmidt at first base on an affordable one-year deal, a report emerged from Diario Meridiano, a reputable Venezuelan sports paper. Anthony Santander, who followed the Yankees on Instagram just a few days ago (so you know it's true love), purportedly remains in their sights.

But ... at what position? First base instead of Goldschmidt, where he's played a total of nine games? Left field, bumping Dominguez off the roster (and leaving second base uncovered)? Left field, sending Bellinger to first despite reports to the contrary? Regardless, as the slugger's price drops, the fit should be taken semi-seriously.

Yankees preparing strong offer for former Orioles slugger Anthony Santander?

As Meridiano opened their article (translated from Spanish), "The New York Yankees continue to strengthen their roster for the next MLB season and Venezuelan Anthony Santander emerges as one of the management's main objectives." That's certainly worth noting, coming from a native source of their renown.

Santander's bat absolutely will travel; the vast majority of his 2.9 bWAR last season came from his 44 bombs in the middle of a formidable Orioles lineup. The defense? That's where the question marks emerge; he's both a liability and could cause alignment problems (and might just send Dominguez undeservedly back to the minors).

These rumors appear to have legs, but we much prefer the collection of short-term talents the Yankees have imported in recent days, rather than opting for inflexibility.