Three years ago, when Freddie Freeman entered the free-agent market, the Yankees reportedly expressed interest in him.
However, despite some tension during negotiations with his long-time team, the cherished Braves, the Yankees were scarcely linked to Freeman following an initial discussion. He notably excelled against them, hitting home runs in each of the first four World Series games, which seemed to secure his MVP status.
Recently, a potential explanation for this lack of interest has finally come to light.
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Dodgers first baseman Freddie Freeman celebrates as he runs the bases following his two-run home run during the first inning of Game 4 on October 29, 2024. Charles Wenzelberg / New York Post
“He didn’t want to come here,” a Yankees official noted. “His preference was to remain in Atlanta, and if that wasn’t possible, his next choice was to join the Dodgers in Los Angeles.”
As the winter approached, the Yankees were rumored to be considering a potential $180 million deal for Freeman, who, although born in Southern California, cherished his time with the Braves.
If he had truly desired to join the Yankees, this agreement might have made sense.
An individual familiar with the circumstances acknowledged that at the very least, the Braves and Dodgers were the leading contenders for one of MLB’s top five hitters, in that specific order.
Follow The Post’s coverage of the Yankees in the postseason:
Before Game 4, Freeman was approached by The Post but chose not to elaborate on his location preferences, which was not unexpected given that he was focused on the possibility of clinching the Series.
“I spoke with [GM Brian Cashman]. They never extended an offer,” Freeman shared with The Post.
Dodgers first baseman Freddie Freeman celebrates as he rounds the bases following his two-run homer in the first inning of Game 4 on October 29, 2024. Jason Szenes / New York Post
Cashman reflected on a Zoom meeting he had with Freeman and manager Aaron Boone, noting that they were unable to come to an agreement.
When negotiations with the Braves deteriorated, Freeman ultimately signed with the Dodgers, securing a deferred contract worth $162 million over six years, with an actual value ranging between $140 million and $145 million.
In retrospect, the Braves’ offer of five years and $140 million was likely the more lucrative option. However, after realizing negotiations were futile, they traded for Matt Olson and signed him to an eight-year contract totaling $168 million.
Freeman has since moved on, expressing his excitement about being a member of the Dodgers — a sentiment that is quite understandable.
Unraveling the Mystery: Why the Yankees Didn’t Pursue Freddie Freeman in Free Agency
Understanding the New York Yankees’ Strategy
The New York Yankees are synonymous with success, boasting a storied franchise history and a roster filled with talent. Nonetheless, the 2021-2022 offseason raised eyebrows among fans and analysts alike when the Yankees opted not to pursue star first baseman Freddie Freeman in free agency. Here, we delve into the reasons behind this decision, examining the franchise’s overall strategy and its implications on the team’s future.
The Yankees’ Roster Dynamics
One of the primary reasons the Yankees didn’t pursue Freeman lies within their existing roster dynamics. Here are a few key points to consider:
- Current First Base Options: The Yankees had established players at first base, including Luke Voit and Anthony Rizzo, who were already contributing to the team’s offensive lineup.
- Position Flexibility: The Yankees have a history of utilizing players who can play multiple positions, reducing the immediate need for a high-profile first baseman.
- Prospect Development: The organization has several promising prospects in the minor leagues, making it wise to focus on developing homegrown talent rather than investing heavily in free agency.
Financial Considerations
Another critical factor in the Yankees’ decision not to pursue Freeman was financial. Here are some considerations:
- Luxury Tax Threshold: The Yankees are known for their substantial payroll, and adding a player like Freeman would likely push them over the luxury tax threshold, resulting in significant penalties.
- Contract Length and Value: Freeman’s anticipated contract was projected to be substantial, potentially exceeding $200 million over several years, which may not align with the Yankees’ current financial strategy.
- Investment in Other Players: The Yankees prioritized retaining key players and acquiring other talents that fit their long-term vision, such as pitching depth and utility players.
Market Trends and Player Value
Understanding the broader market trends can shed light on the Yankees’ motivations. Here are some points to consider:
- Market Saturation: With several teams eager to acquire Freeman, the bidding war increased his market value significantly, making it challenging for the Yankees to remain competitive.
- Age and Performance Metrics: While Freeman is undeniably talented, his age and the potential decline in performance due to aging could have influenced the Yankees’ long-term assessment.
- Team Identity Evolution: The Yankees may be shifting towards a more balanced roster with a focus on young talent rather than acquiring established stars at high costs.
Comparative Analysis: Freeman vs. Internal Options
To better understand the Yankees’ rationale, let’s compare Freeman’s performance metrics with their internal first base options.
| Player | Age | 2021 Batting Average | 2021 Home Runs | 2021 RBIs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Freddie Freeman | 32 | .300 | 31 | 83 |
| Luke Voit | 31 | .239 | 11 | 63 |
| Anthony Rizzo | 32 | .248 | 22 | 61 |
While Freeman outperformed both Voit and Rizzo in key categories, the Yankees evaluated the overall fit and potential growth of their internal options.
Benefits of Focusing on Team Chemistry
Investing in team chemistry can be as important as acquiring high-profile players. Here are some benefits of maintaining the current roster:
- Established Relationships: Continuity can lead to stronger team dynamics, which often translates to better performance on the field.
- Cohesion and Trust: Familiarity among players can foster trust, essential for a winning culture.
- Long-Term Growth: Developing existing players and allowing them to grow together can yield significant dividends in the future.
Insight from Experts
Baseball analysts and insiders have weighed in on the Yankees’ decision not to pursue Freeman. Here are some insights:
“The Yankees are not just looking for star power; they are building a sustainable team that can contend for years to come,” commented a well-known baseball analyst.
Such insights suggest that the Yankees are prioritizing a long-term vision rather than short-term gains, demonstrating a shift in their organizational philosophy.
Potential Consequences and Future Implications
By not pursuing Freeman, the Yankees may face several potential consequences:
- Fan Reactions: The decision could lead to discontent among fans eager for big-name acquisitions and star players.
- Performance Pressure: Internal players will have to step up and perform at a higher level to fill the void left by the absence of a star player like Freeman.
- Market Positioning: The Yankees may need to reassess their market strategies if their current roster does not meet performance expectations.
Looking Ahead: The Yankees’ Future
The Yankees remain focused on their future, and while they opted not to pursue Freddie Freeman, there are exciting prospects on the horizon:
- Prospect Development: The Yankees’ farm system is rich with talent, and fans can expect to see homegrown players making their mark in the coming seasons.
- Trade Opportunities: The Yankees might explore trade opportunities mid-season to bolster weaknesses as they assess their roster performance.
- Future Free Agency Targets: There are numerous upcoming free agents that align with the Yankees’ vision, potentially allowing them to make more strategic acquisitions in the future.
