Two teams have reportedly emerged as serious suitors for Yankees outfielder Aaron Judge
Judge will enter free agency coming off a colossus season at the plate
The New York Yankees season came to an end this week when the club was swept in the ALCS by the Houston Astros. With free agency set to begin following the conclusion of the World Series, Yankees fans are left wondering if Aaron Judge will re-sign with the team.
Judge had a historic season mashing 62 home runs, putting himself in a position for a record setting contract. The all-time American League home run leader is expected to land a $300 million deal this winter. The question is what team will offer Judge the mega contract he deserves?
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According to MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand, the Dodgers are seriously interested in pursuing Judge. The Dodgers have reportedly had conversations with Mookie Betts about moving over to second base. If Betts moves to the infield, Judge would play right field for the Dodgers.
“Mookie Betts is apparently willing to move to second base, per sources, which would free up right field for Judge,” wrote Feinsand.
Betts made 15 appearances at second base since he was traded by the Red Sox to the Dodgers in 2020. The former American League MVP is a Gold Glove finalist as a right fielder this season.
Betts played the infield when he was in the Red Sox system. He was drafted as an infielder in 2011 but converted to the outfield in 2014 at the Double-A level.
Another team seriously interested in Judge is the San Francisco Giants.
The Giants reportedly have Judge at the top of their offseason wishlist. According to an article on NJ.com on Tuesday, the Giants “won’t be underbid” for Judge’s services.
“Judge is at the top of the Giants list and they won’t be underbid,” the person said. If they miss out, it won’t be because of money.
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“The person added that the Giants planned to entice Judge further by signing at least two-high priced free agents. The Giants are not going to stop with Judge. They have so much money freed up.
“They need a draw with the Dodgers and Padres in their division spending big money on big names,” the article stated. “I know the Giants also are feeling pressure with the Warriors’ basketball team doing so well and spending big in the same market.”
The Yankees will be a serious suitor to keep Judge in the Bronx, but if he wants to possibly leave, they’ll be teams lining up.
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