As the Juan Soto sweepstakes reportedly nears its conclusion, Evan Roberts opened Wednesday’s show with a detailed, thought-out Plan B for the Yankees if Soto signs elsewhere.
The Yanks would be losing 41 home runs, a league-leading on-base machine, and a proven playoff performer, but Evan says there is a way to replicate that production, while also getting a lot more versatile, by using that money and other resources to make multiple alternative moves this winter.
It starts with a move that likely won’t be celebrated by Yankee fans, as the first order of business would be acquiring one of two hated rivals.
“One of the cheaters has to come to the Yankees,” Evan said. “Alex Bregman...we know he plays Gold Glove defense at third base...he is still gonna put the bat on the ball, still knows how to win, and still improves a position in which you need vast improvement.
“Carlos Correa is available. The Twins would make him available. He has eight years on his contract, but only four are guaranteed...he’s actually a little younger than Alex Bregman. At third base, Alex Bregman or Carlos Correa...they are similar in age, pedigree, and I think it’s time as Yankee fans to move on from the cheating.”
The second step would be acquiring a player the Yankees were heavily linked two in previous trade deadlines.
“Plan B piece number three: Cody Bellinger,” Evan said. “He fits on this team for numerous reasons. He has two years left on his deal, he has cut back on strikeouts over the years...is really good defensively at first base, and you’d also have the option that maybe he’s your center fielder.”
Next up? More rivalry additions, this time with the team across town who has a former batting champion under contract coming off a brutal season that was cut short by injury, opening the door to acquire him via trade in exchange for a Yankee who had a rough season of his own.
“Jeff McNeil can play second base, can potentially play third base, and can also play the outfield,” Evan said. “And you’re giving up Marcus Stroman. You’re giving up something of less significance, and money wise, you’re actually clearing out a few million dollars.
“I’m giving you great versatility.”
Finally, the biggest splash for last, Evan wants to see the Yanks part with one of their top prospects to acquire one of the best players on the trading block, with a second piece that Evan believes will be more impactful than many believe.
“We have to consider trading Spencer Jones and Jasson Dominguez...you acquire Garrett Crochet,” Evan said. “Boy, your rotation gets a lot of upside. But that’s not the part that really excites me. What excited me is Luis Robert Jr. He’s signed to a team-friendly deal, is a center fielder, and two years ago, he looked like a burgeoning star.”