New York Yankees are interested in Anthony Santander to replace Juan Soto

It’s nearly impossible to replace a player of Juan Soto’s caliber, but the New York Yankees are looking for some strong replacement options.

A candidate who could fill the void left by Soto in the Yankees’ outfield has spent his entire career playing for the AL East rival Baltimore Orioles and had a big season in 2024.

Accordingly News dayAccording to Erik Boland, the Yankees are interested in hard-hitting free agent outfielder Anthony Santander, who appears to have a mutual interest in capturing the pinstripes.

“Santander is said to be fascinated by the idea of ​​being a Yankee,” Boland wrote.

Santander set career highs with 44 home runs and 102 RBI for Baltimore last season. He also had a career-best OPS of .814 (excluding the 2020 Covid-shortened season).

Santander, 30, hit 155 home runs and posted a .776 OPS in eight big league seasons with the Orioles. It appears that Baltimore has completely moved on from Santander after signing outfielder Tyler O’Neill to a three-year, $49.5 million contract last week.

The 2024 All-Star and Silver Slugger winner would be an ideal fit in the middle of the Yankees lineup. Santander is a switch-hitter who would add balance and power to the Bronx Bombers’ offense, which already features AL MVP Aaron Judge and DH Giancarlo Stanton.

Santander has played right field for most of his career, but it’s possible he could be used as a left fielder since the Yankees want Judge to move back to right. Top prospect Jasson Dominguez is also a strong candidate for the midfield position, a position where he has more experience and comfort.

Beyond Santander, the Yankees are exploring a trade with the Chicago Cubs for first baseman/outfielder Cody Bellinger. As Yankees on SI As reported earlier this week, New York’s No. 5 prospect, right-handed pitcher Will Warren, was discussed as a potential piece that could be acquired in a deal.

However, MLB Insider Jon Heyman of The New York Post reported Sunday that there is still a gap in the Bellinger talks between the Yankees and Cubs due to money concerns.

If the Yankees can’t sign Bellinger, the need for Santander or Teoscar Hernandez will increase. Should Bellinger end up in the Bronx, the Yankees could make him their first baseman and still sign Santander to play the outfield.