With the Yankees waiting on a decision from Juan Soto, the time might be now to explore what they could look to do if the 26-year-old superstar does not re-sign with the team. With Aaron Judge and Jasson Dominguez likely to occupy two outfield spots, here are three options the Yankees could turn to in right field other than Soto.
1: Anthony Santander
A longtime division rival, the Yankees could poach former Oriole Anthony Santander, a 30-year-old right fielder, to fill a Soto-sized void. Santander, a switch hitter and primarily a right fielder, has spent time at left, center, and first base during his career. He is coming off a 2024 season that was the best of his career.
In 155 games and 595 at-bats, Santander hit a career-high 44 home runs with 102 RBI and hit .235 with an .814 OPS. While Santander’s obvious home run power is apparent. His low on-base percentage and below-average fielding could see him as a liability in the outfield. Santander had power numbers similar to those of Soto but with a significantly worse slash line.
While Santander would provide power in the absence of Soto, the Yankees, who are in search of an upgrade defensively, could look elsewhere for more of a complete-package outfielder.
2: Teoscar Hernandez
Fresh off winning a World Series championship with the Dodgers, the Yankees could try to lure Teoscar Hernandez across the country. No stranger to the Bronx, having played six seasons as a member of the Blue Jays, the Yankees have seen Hernandez’s talent firsthand, and he could be a very strong addition to their outfield.
In his age 31 season, Hernandez hit 33 homers, collected 99 RBI, and hit .272 with an .840 OPS. He was also named to the All-Star team for the second time in his career and a silver slugger for the third time.
As previously mentioned, if the Yankees are looking for a more complete outfielder, Hernandez is the way to go. He is a proven winner, a playoff performer, having hit three homers for the Dodgers in the playoffs, and someone who adds an instant impact bat to a Yankees lineup that desperately needs one. While many signs point to Hernandez returning to LA, the Yankees should be chomping at the bit to make him a Yankee if Soto walks.
3: Tyler O’Neill
The Yankees could try to pry Tyler O’Neill from the Boston Red Sox to add to their already long list of players who look like they could be bodybuilders instead of baseball players. O’Neill, a two-time Gold Glove-winning left fielder, could fit in at right for the Yankees. O’Neill, whose defense and speed have always shined, took another step forward with his bat in 2024
This past year, he connected on 31 homers, 80 RBI, and hit .286 with a .912 OPS to go with his stellar outfield defense. O’Neill looks to be exactly the player the Yankees are looking for. He has good power and is fast, as he stole 15 bases last year and is one of the best defensive outfielders in the sport.
If the Yankees don’t retain Soto, O’Neill, at only 29 years old, should be their top target.
