The New York Yankees are set to begin the season with Aaron Judge, Jasson Domínguez, and Cody Bellinger as their starting outfielders, giving Domínguez his long-awaited opportunity to shine. However, this leaves Alex Verdugo still looking for a team.
The 28-year-old outfielder has yet to secure a contract, but that could change soon. Bleacher Report’s Zachary Rymer recently predicted that Verdugo will sign with the Kansas City Royals. While Spotrac projects him to earn $60 million, that figure seems unlikely at this point.
Rymer noted, “Verdugo, at 28, remains a solid everyday player, making him an anomaly in free agency.” He also pointed out that Verdugo is a better hitter than the player who posted a .647 OPS for the Yankees in 2024 and has moments where he plays like a Gold Glove outfielder.
Verdugo reportedly turned down a one-year, $8 million offer from the Pittsburgh Pirates earlier this offseason. Despite the financial expectations fading, Rymer believes there is still a major league deal out there for him.
The Royals could be an ideal landing spot for Verdugo, as they need offensive help, especially with Bobby Witt Jr. dealing with injuries. Although Verdugo struggled in 2024, his past performance, including five consecutive seasons with an OPS+ over 100, shows he can contribute.
While it’s unlikely he gets the $60 million deal he was hoping for, a one- or two-year contract worth about $20 million could be a solid option for the Royals, offering low risk while providing Verdugo the chance to play for a contender.
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