The New York Yankees lost outfielder Juan Soto to free agency this offseason after he signed a record-setting deal with the New York Mets. Last season, the Yankees’ starting outfield featured Soto, Aaron Judge, and Alex Verdugo, who is currently a free agent.
This season, New York’s starting outfield is expected to include Jasson Domínguez, Cody Bellinger, and Judge. With Giancarlo Stanton out for a while, should the Yankees consider bringing back Verdugo for the 2025 season? Some are surprised he is still unsigned.
Aaron Judge Surprised Alex Verdugo Hasn’t Signed
On Tuesday, March 18, The Athletic’a Brendan Kuty wrote an article titled, “Yankees ‘surprised’ Alex Verdugo remains a free agent.” Judge and other Yankees clubhouse members were asked about Verdugo still being unsigned, to which the New York superstar outfielder responded, “I am surprised. He’s such a great player. He brings so much value and versatility to a team.”
Last season, Verdugo played in 149 games for the Yankees, hitting .233 with 13 home runs, 61 RBIs, and two stolen bases, and one caught stealing. His .291 on-base percentage was his lowest since his 2017 rookie season.
At 28 years old, Verdugo still has plenty to offer an MLB team in 2025. Yankees manager Aaron Boone is also surprised that Verdugo remains unsigned so close to Opening Day.
“Maybe a little bit surprised because he’s without question a big-league player and a big-league starting player, for me. It just probably hasn’t lined up money-wise and team-wise and need-wise, but he was great with us.”
If the Yankees suffer an outfield injury this season, would general manager Brian Cashman consider bringing Verdugo back? Verdugo’s agent, Dan Lozano of MVP Sports Group, has not yet commented on the situation.
Along with the Yankees, Verdugo has also played for the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Boston Red Sox throughout his career. Now, it appears that teams are taking a wait-and-see approach before making a move. Last season, he earned $8.7 million, but he’s yet to receive a contract offer from any MLB club since hitting free agency.
Backup outfielder Trent Grisham shared his thoughts on Verdugo:
“He was my lockermate from Day 1. He was my guy. I loved playing with him. I think he’s a great player. Really good defender. Great hitter. Had a little bit of a down year last year, but great hitter, and a great teammate. Fun to be around. Every day, couldn’t stop laughing when you’re hanging out with him.”
There’s no doubt that Verdugo was well-liked in the Yankees’ clubhouse last season, and it remains a possibility that Cashman is considering a reunion as the season approaches. Verdugo could even be a designated hitter option instead of Ben Rice.