The New York Yankees made waves in the offseason with significant acquisitions, yet the potential for more loomed large.
In what many consider the blockbuster trade of the offseason, the Yankees secured superstar slugger Juan Soto from the San Diego Padres, instantly elevating their lineup. Soto’s impact has been undeniable, positioning him as a top contender for the American League Most Valuable Player award.
Seeking to bolster their starting rotation, the Yankees made a splash by signing two-time All-Star Marcus Stroman. While Stroman’s addition is commendable, the team had set its sights on a grander acquisition: former Orix Buffaloes ace Yoshinobu Yamamoto. Despite their efforts, Yamamoto opted for the Los Angeles Dodgers over the Yankees, leaving New York with a missed opportunity.
Reports suggest that Yamamoto would have favored the Yankees or the New York Mets had it not been for Shohei Ohtani’s signing with the Dodgers, a move that influenced his decision, as per USA Today Sports’ Bob Nightengale.
Yamamoto, despite a slow start to the season, has since showcased his prowess on the mound with an impressive 2.91 ERA and a remarkable 42-to-8 strikeout-to-walk ratio in 34 innings pitched across seven starts.
While the Yankees remain one of baseball’s elite teams, the addition of Yamamoto could have further strengthened their roster. However, it appears that Ohtani’s presence may have been the decisive factor in this missed opportunity.