"The Yankees had another good season in 2025, but with the Yankees, good isn't good enough. Going into 2026, they will undoubtedly be looking to reload as they continue trying to take advantage of having a superhuman Aaron Judge on the roster. Guaranteed Contracts Aaron Judge, OF: $240MM through 2031 Max Fried, LHP: $196MM through 2032 (includes $10MM to be paid in January of 2026, half of $20MM signing bonus)"
"They have missed the playoffs just five times in the past 31 years. But the expectations in the Bronx are higher than that. It's now been more than 15 years since the last parade. There's always pressure for the Yankees to compete but that title drought should create extra urgency. There's also the ticking clock on Judge. He is still producing at an incredible level. Despite missing some time this year, FanGraphs credited him with 10.1 wins above replacement."
The Yankees posted another strong 2025 season but failed to meet championship expectations, prompting plans to reload for 2026 to maximize Aaron Judge's prime. The payroll carries massive guarantees to Judge ($240M through 2031), Max Fried ($196M through 2032), Gerrit Cole ($108M through 2028), Carlos Rodón ($81M through 2028), Giancarlo Stanton ($64M through 2027) and Ryan McMahon ($32M through 2027). Projected 2026 guarantees total $184M with total future commitments around $715M. Several arbitration-eligible players and non-tender candidates complicate roster decisions. Judge remains elite (10.1 WAR) but will turn 34, and other core players are aging. Spring training injuries included Cole (Tommy John) and Luis Gil (lat).
Read at MLB Trade Rumors
Unable to calculate read time
Collection
[
|
...
]