The New York Yankees could very well be done making major moves ahead of the 2026 season. New York had previously been linked with several top free agents throughout the winter. This lengthy list included Tatsuya Imai, Bo Bichette, and even Kyle Tucker. Starting pitchers such as Freddy Peralta and Edward Cabrera were also possible trade targets.
Nevertheless, the Bronx Bombers failed to sign any of the aforementioned free agents or complete a trade for either starter. Instead, New York brought in Ryan Weathers, Ryan Yarbrough, and Paul Blackburn to help their rotation/bullpen and re-signed Cody Bellinger. The latter move was the team’s top priority for the entire winter.
Unfortunately for Yankees fans, the Bellinger deal may be the team’s final significant signing of the offseason. MLB insider Mark Feinsand believes that New York is likely finished making major moves and the roster is mostly complete for opening day.
In a recent Q&A for MLB.com, Feinsand was asked if the Yankees could make another offseason splash. The insider proceeded to pour cold water on the idea. “Frankly, I’m not sure there’s a need for another huge splash,” replied Feinsand. He then claimed that Bellinger was “the only missing piece” to the club’s lineup, and he “does not expect” GM Brian Cashman to sign another free agent starter after missing out on Peralta.
New York Yankees Rotation and Starting Lineup Seemingly Complete for 2026
GettyBellinger’s return helps round out a potent Yankees lineup.
Feinsand’s comments will likely disappoint many Yankees fans. This is mostly because of New York’s perceived precarious situation with the team’s rotation. Gerrit Cole and Carlos Rodon will miss the start of the 2026 season as they recover from injury. Nevertheless, both starters are scheduled to return well before the All-Star break. Rodon could be back as early as April, while Cole could make his season debut by May.
Along with Weathers, the Yankees have Max Fried, Cam Schlittler, Luis Gil, Clarke Schmidt, and Will Warren as starter options. As Feinsand points out, once Rodon and Cole return, New York “will be in great shape” regarding their rotation. Fried, Cole, and Rodon, specifically, give the Yankees a very formidable front three.
As far as the lineup goes, New York may not have to add much to compete in 2026. The Yankees previously scored the most runs and hit the most home runs in baseball in 2025 as they posted the joint-best record in the American League. Bellinger’s return helps solidify the team’s strong lineup. While there are a couple of question marks, particularly at third base, the Bronx Bombers should still have a potent offense in 2026.
Yankees Could Still Make Minor Moves to Improve Bullpen
Feinsand does, however, believe that the Yankees could still make a minor move or two moving forward. With their outfield now complete, Cashman could use either Jasson Dominguez or Spencer Jones as trade bait to help solidify his bullpen. This is likely the lone area where the Yankees could strengthen.
Dominguez does not necessarily have to be moved, though. The former top prospect could be utilized as the club’s fourth outfielder for 2026, and potentially earn a starting spot in the future if Trent Grisham departs in 2027. Either way, it seems as if New York’s starting lineup and rotation are set for the start of the season.
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