I'm trying to focus on the needs of other teams outside of New York, but it's extremely difficult to not play "junior GM" for the Yankees and attempt to plug some glaring holes. With that said, I'll focus on one of the positions that will, in all probability, be vacated. I don't have the heart to say goodbye to the Captain, but I can say goodbye to our controversial third baseman. Since MLB upheld the suspension of Alex Rodriguez, the team will be in need of a third baseman. At this point, the Yankees do not have any Major League-ready talent for that position. So, the Yankees can either suffer through another year with a subpar performance from Eduardo Nunez or sign a quality free agent. My choice would be Chase Headley who currently plays for the San Diego Padres.
Chase Headley's contract expires at the end of the 2014 season and he'll be looking for a new home with all the trimmings. Don't get me wrong, you can't beat the climate of Southern California, but the $$$ and championships will also keep you cozy. It wasn't too long ago that the Yanks made a smart free agent move and signed Scott Brosius. That signing was a key component in their late 90's championship run.
Headley hits from both sides of the plate and his power numbers would be enhanced within a more hitter- friendly park. Defensively, he's solid and has averaged 138 games the last 5 years since becoming a full time player. At 30 years old, Headley is still young enough to give the Yankee franchise some much needed stability at the hot corner. A 4 year deal at $15 million per with a 5th year option for steady defensive play and switch hitting power could fit right with the team's future plans.
Some of the other potential suitors for Chase Headley would be his current team, the San Diego Padres, and the Los Angeles Dodgers.
The Padres ownership would probably like to avoid arbitration and sign Chase Headley to a longer term deal similar to David Wright and Evan Longoria. Even though Headley supposedly turned down an offer of a five to eight year contract at approximately $15 million per year, the team would still be interested in keeping him as their marque player. The new ownership would like to show the fan base that they are seriously interested in providing a competitive team.
The Dodgers new ownership has shown that they are committed to spending on talent and would like to continue making steps toward regaining the lost market share in Southern California. Even though the club has resigned Juan Uribe until 2015, the Dodgers still need an everyday third baseman to compliment their other power corner position. With the possibility of Hanley Ramirez testing the free agent market in 2015, anything is possible. I wouldn't be surprised if the Dodgers continue to go for broke, sign both and regain that "Dodger Blue" luster.
My overall opinion is that the Yankees will go after Chase Headley aggressively, especially if he bounces back from his disappointing 2013 season. They will have stiff competition, but in all likelihood they will overpay to secure the third baseman long-term.
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