The failed pursuit of Juan Soto and the acquisitions of Max Fried and Devin Williams may have dominated the headlines of the New York Yankees’ offseason, and rightfully so—those moves, or the absence of them, had a major impact on the team’s winter.
However, it’s important not to overlook the fact that the Yankees brought in two former MVPs: Cody Bellinger, who won the award in 2019, and Paul Goldschmidt, who was named MVP in 2022. These players aren’t just big names—they’re proven stars, even if their recent performances haven’t quite matched their usual levels.
Bellinger and Goldschmidt Will Play With A Chip On Their Shoulders
Both are coming off somewhat disappointing 2024 seasons, but baseball has a way of reminding us why certain players have MVP trophies on their shelves. When they’re healthy and fully focused, Bellinger and Goldschmidt still have the ability to dominate a game.
On Tuesday, Bellinger took a moment to acknowledge his new teammate, a player who has been the picture of consistency since his Arizona days and has carried that over to St. Louis:
“Paul is a pro’s pro,” Bellinger said of Goldschmidt via YES Network. “He’s been consistent defensively throughout his entire career and is surprisingly a really good baserunner. The offense speaks for itself. He’s a guy who holds himself to a high standard, a tremendous player.”
The Rizzo Replacement
Goldschmidt is set to take over at first base for the Yankees in 2025, replacing Anthony Rizzo. The 37-year-old signed a one-year deal and will look to prove he still has plenty to offer. Last season, he hit 22 home runs in 154 games, posting a league-average 100 wRC+. While this is a drop from his career average of 139 wRC+, it would be foolish to write off a hitter of his caliber.
If Goldschmidt can manage a wRC+ in the 100-110 range, the Yankees will be getting an upgrade compared to what they’ve seen from Rizzo and other first basemen in recent years. The decline is inevitable—it happens to every player—but the Yankees are betting that playing for a World Series contender will bring out the best in him.
