The New York Yankees are expected to be active this offseason, and one prediction suggests they will make a major move to improve their roster by acquiring both a power hitter and a top-tier reliever.
TheScore published its 11 MLB predictions for November 25, and analyst Brandon Wilde projected a blockbuster trade where the Yankees land third baseman Nolan Arenado and closer Ryan Helsley from the St. Louis Cardinals. According to Wilde, this move would address key needs for New York.
“Arenado’s power numbers have declined over the past three seasons, but he remains an elite defender with great contact skills,” Wilde wrote. “With three years and roughly $64 million left on his contract, his price tag is more manageable for the Yankees. Adding Arenado would allow New York to move Jazz Chisholm Jr. to second base or center field, boosting a defense that struggled during the postseason.”
Wilde also highlighted Helsley’s potential impact, as the Cardinals’ 2024 NL Reliever of the Year would step into the Yankees’ closer role, with current closer Clay Holmes moving to setup duties.
Arenado is under contract for three more years with the Cardinals, and while his bat has cooled in recent seasons, his defensive ability and veteran presence would be a valuable addition to the Yankees’ lineup. Helsley, meanwhile, would immediately strengthen the bullpen, which was a key area of concern.
How Would Arenado & Helsley Fit With The Yankees?
This predicted move would address two critical needs for New York. The Yankees have been struggling to find a consistent third baseman, and Arenado, with his strong defense and power bat, would be a perfect fit. In 2024, Arenado hit .272 with 16 home runs and 71 RBIs. He is also a 10-time Gold Glove winner and five-time Silver Slugger, making him a key defensive upgrade as well.
Nolan Arenado
Helsley would also be a game-changer for the Yankees’ bullpen. After a dominant 2024 season where he finished with a 2.04 ERA and converted 49 of 53 save opportunities, Helsley would take over the closer’s role, allowing Clay Holmes to shift to a setup position. This would deepen and strengthen the Yankees’ bullpen.
Yankees Positioned to Add Talent, Says Owner
After making it to the World Series in 2024, the Yankees are looking to continue improving. While their primary focus is re-signing Juan Soto, owner Hal Steinbrenner confirmed that the team has the financial resources to pursue additional talent.
“We’re in a better position than we were a year ago,” Steinbrenner said. “Payrolls like this year’s aren’t sustainable long-term, but that doesn’t mean we can’t do what we need to do in any given year. We have the ability to sign any player we want.”
The Yankees had a payroll of $309 million in 2024, according to Spotrac, leaving them with plenty of room to make impactful acquisitions this offseason.
