Focus on a High-Profile, Established Superstar (Focusing on Aaron Judge’s Replacement, like Shohei Ohtani..

2. Focus on a High-Profile, Established Superstar (Focusing on Aaron Judge’s Replacement, like Shohei Ohtani)

Approach Overview: If the Yankees see the opportunity to land a superstar who might be available via trade due to contract expiration or a team needing to rebuild, they could opt for a more calculated approach. A superstar like Shohei Ohtani (Los Angeles Angels) could be a prime target. Ohtani’s unique status as both a hitter and a pitcher makes him extremely valuable, but a trade for him could happen if the Angels decide to move him during a rebuilding phase, especially with his contract status looming.

Step 1: Trade Proposal to the Angels for Shohei Ohtani

• Player Package: To acquire Ohtani, the Yankees would likely need to part with a combination of young stars and established players. A potential trade could look like Gleyber Torres (second baseman), Jasson Domínguez, Deivi García (pitching prospect), and Ken Waldichuk (another top pitching prospect).
• Why This Works for the Yankees: Ohtani provides an all-encompassing skillset as both a pitcher and a hitter. His dual-threat ability could be exactly what the Yankees need to boost their rotation and lineup. He would not only bolster their pitching staff but also immediately transform the offense, adding a consistent power bat from the left side. Ohtani would be the perfect fit in New York, particularly with Judge’s long-term future in question, making Ohtani an ideal complement (or potential replacement) in the outfield.
• Why It Works for the Angels: If the Angels decide to move Ohtani, they would likely seek a huge return of high-quality prospects to help build a new competitive core. Torres, Domínguez, and García would provide the Angels with major league-ready talent and young upside that could be the foundation for their rebuild.

Step 2: New York as Ohtani’s Ideal Destination

• Player Integration: If the Yankees were to acquire Ohtani, they would need to navigate how to best utilize him as both a hitter and a pitcher. Since Ohtani’s value is greater than most players due to his ability to excel in two facets of the game, the Yankees would be prepared to give him the resources he needs to manage both duties. This could potentially align with Aaron Judge’s long-term contract situation, as the Yankees could accommodate both players within their financial and roster structure.
• Why This Works for the Yankees: The Yankees have the financial capability to make a major move for Ohtani. The team’s deep pockets and lucrative market in New York would likely appeal to Ohtani, especially as the Yankees look to cement themselves as an AL powerhouse for the coming decade.

Conclusion for This Approach: This strategy is a more calculated and specific approach, with the Yankees pursuing a player whose skill set is unmatched and who could help in both pitching and hitting. Acquiring Ohtani would give them an edge in all aspects of the game, making them a more complete team ready to challenge for the World Series title.