The New York Yankees are in need of a first baseman after declining Anthony Rizzo’s 2025 option and allowing him to hit free agency. Since making that move, the Yankees have yet to make a roster addition. According to Jon Heyman of The New York Post on X, the Yankees are considering signing Carlos Santana as part of their solution.
Heyman mentioned, “Still a $ gap in Bellinger trade talk with Yankees and Cubs as of this minute. It’s a matter of ‘who blinks first,’ if ever. Still could happen but Yanks also considering Alonso, Walker, C. Santana, J. Naylor, N. Lowe, probably others.”
Santana, who is aiming to extend his career for another couple of seasons, is likely to sign a one- or two-year contract in free agency. In 2024 with the Minnesota Twins, he batted .238 with 23 home runs and 71 RBIs. A former 34-home-run hitter, Santana boasts a career-high of 113 RBIs. His ability to contribute offensively and his defensive skills at first base—earning him the AL Gold Glove in 2024—make him a viable addition.
Mark Polichuk of MLBTradeRumors suggests Santana would represent an affordable and straightforward addition for the Yankees. Polichuk wrote, “Signing Santana would be the most straightforward and cost-effective move of the bunch.” Santana’s 2024 season saw him post a .238/.328/.420 slash line and a 3.0 fWAR—his third-best performance in his 15-year MLB career. While his age (39) could limit his contract terms, his performance suggests he could still make an impact.
Although Santana has also been linked to the Seattle Mariners, joining the Yankees would give him the opportunity to be a key middle-of-the-order bat on a contender.
Meanwhile, the Yankees have no current plans to re-sign Anthony Rizzo, despite having previously declined his $17 million option for 2025. Jack Curry of YES Network reported that New York has “no plans” to bring Rizzo back. Rizzo, who dealt with injuries throughout 2024, expressed his affection for the team but acknowledged that his future in New York is uncertain. Rizzo hit .228 with 8 home runs and 35 RBIs across 92 games last season.
Signing Santana could provide the Yankees with a cheaper and practical solution as they navigate their first base needs for 2025.
