Brian Cashman knows the New York Yankees could face serious challenges on the mound, but according to a report, he already has a backup plan in motion. He has reportedly compiled a list of five pitchers who could help address the issue, and Aaron Judge has already expressed a preference for one of them.
According to MLB insider Mike Rodriguez, Cashman has five pitchers on his radar, with three under strong consideration: Erick Fedde, Dylan Cease, and Sandy Alcántara. The latter is Aaron Judge’s top choice, as he views Alcántara as the best candidate to join the Yankees.
Beyond those three, Cashman has two additional options who could enter the conversation. One of them is former Yankees pitcher Sonny Gray, who had a brief stint with the team and is currently under a $75 million contract with the St. Louis Cardinals.
The final name on the list is Michael King, who played for the Yankees from 2019 to 2023 before joining the San Diego Padres on a one-year, $15 million deal. During his time in New York, King posted a 3.38 ERA over 115 appearances.
Yankees’ Rotation Still Looks Strong
Despite injuries to Gerrit Cole and Luis Gil, the Yankees remain in solid shape heading into the 2025 MLB season. However, the biggest concern for the team lies in offensive injuries, particularly Giancarlo Stanton’s ongoing elbow issues.
For now, Marcus Stroman will be a key piece on the mound during the upcoming season. As a starter, and with Cole potentially sidelined, the pressure on him and the rest of the rotation will only increase. Stroman was part of the 2024 regular-season rotation when Cole also missed the early months due to injury, yet the team still managed to reach the postseason.