Juan Soto and Alex Verdugo were recruited by the New York Yankees to strengthen their outfield. Their primary priority going into the summer was upgrading that unit.

That was undoubtedly aided by the addition of possibly the best outfielder in Major League Baseball. If the Yankees are able to package Verdugo in another transaction, they may choose to let him go.

As noted by MLB.com’s Will Leitch, Verdugo’s status as their starting left fielder is still under question. Given that Cody Bellinger is free, New York might be the best option. Regarding the Yankees, who he thought would be the second-best option to sign the former MVP, Leitch had the following to sаy.

“With the addition of Soto and Alex Verdugo, Bellinger would not appear to have room at this time. However, there is still doubt that the Yanks would actually play Alex Verdugo as their everyday left fielder in 2024, a crucial year for the team. Aaron Judge might shift out of center field if Bellinger signed with the Yankees, giving them the kind of raucous, All-Star outfield fans are accustomed to seeing in The Bronx. Yes, they would need to take action regarding Verdugo. But beyond Verdugo, the Yankees have far bigger ambitions for 2024. Additionally, Bellinger’s father, Clay, played for the 1999–2000 Bombers and won World Series rings while wearing the pinstripes.”

Bellinger’s addition makes financial sense if New York is determined to spend as much as possible. But there are probably better uses for that money. It would make more sense to use funds to address pitching requirements while they are still existent.

It’s possible that Bellinger accepts a less expensive offer than what has been reported, but it is also extremely unlikely.