Yankees GM Provides Early Winter Meetings Updates

Cashman Talks Yankees Roster, Past and Present at Winter Meetings

Outfield

The one thing that was consistently mentioned in both sessions is that the team is “ too left-handed right now, without a doubt.” With the loss of Paul Goldschmidt, Amed Rosario (who the team has connected with in free agency), and Austin Slater, there is a clear need for improvement on that front. Cashman did not rule out a return for Cody Bellinger, citing that he spoke to Scott Boras Saturday on multiple of his free agents. 

“Cody Bellinger would be a great fit for us,” said Cashman. “I think he’d be a great fit for anybody. I think he’s a very talented player that can play multiple positions at a high level, and hits lefties, hits righties. He’s a contact guy, and I think our environment was a great one for him.”

Cashman mentioned that if Bellinger walks in free agency, Jasson Dominguez and Spencer Jones would be ready to compete for the left field job out of spring training. Cashman was asked if Kyle Tucker had visited the Yankees complex, to which Cashman said no. Tucker visited the division rival Toronto Blue Jays’ complex earlier this week. Sources indicated Friday that the Yankees had concerns with Tucker’s injury history and his long-term attitude in New York. Those issues could explain the lack of interest.

Pitching

It is no secret that the Yankees are in need of pitching this offseason. Cashman called the Yankees’ rotation “vulnerable” early in 2026. The rotation will be without the likes of Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodon, and Clarke Schmidt for the first month of the season, at least. Cashman was asked about Japanese starter Tatsuya Imai. The team has been linked Imai, but Cashman did not tip his hand. He mentioned that he has spoken to Scott Boras about him. Cashman also declined to answer if he has scheduled a visit to New York. 

The Yankees’ bullpen is a big focus for the team this offseason as well. Cashman referenced that the team will be looking for external options to fix the bullpen. It seems like the team will not be shooting for the top echelon of relievers. Still, they want to improve that area of the team.

Cashman also said that prospect Elmer Rodriguez is “knocking on the door”. He could make an impact on the 2026 roster.

Past Players

The Yankees did not make an offer to Devin Williams in free agency. Cashman said there were preliminary conversations. He added that he wanted to be looped into the negotiations with Williams’ camp, but he was not.

Cashman was also asked about the comments from Sonny Gray when he was acquired by the Boston Red Sox. Cashman said that following the 2018 trade deadline, Cashman revealed that Gray admitted he “hated New York and never wanted to be there.” This statement directly contradicted Gray’s earlier claims to Cashman, which the pitcher later revealed were coached by his agent to emphasize his interest in playing in New York.

Other Notes

It seems that the Yankees will be active in the trade market this offseason. Cashman mentioned multiple times that he is “open-minded” when it comes to trading top-tier prospects. 

Cashman was asked about top infield prospect George Lombard Jr. and his development. “He could play defense in the big leagues right now, but he’s still developing on the hitting side,” Cashman said. “Exciting, high ceiling talent. But I don’t think he’s ready yet.” There is some thought around the organization that 2025 draftee Dax Kilby could pass Lombard Jr. this offseason.

Lastly, Cashman also shot down any rumors about their payroll staying under $300 million. “Hal’s exact words to me – continue to be – ‘take everything that’s out there to me,’ which I will continue to do,” Cashman said.