Juan Soto, Yankees, Alex Verdugo trade - What's next?

Yankees and Red Sox trade for Verdugo, still discussing Soto. Fans react negatively, but more moves likely coming. Patience is key.

The New York Yankees and the Boston Red Sox made a surprising trade that will have a significant impact on the Bronx. The Yankees acquired lefty-hitting outfielder Alex Verdugo in exchange for three pitchers who likely weren't going to spend much time on the roster in 2024. The trade came as a shock, as the Yankees were also in talks with the San Diego Padres about a potential deal for superstar left fielder Juan Soto.

The Athletic's Yankees beat reporters Brendan Kuty and Chris Kirschner reacted to the news, expressing their surprise and uncertainty about what this means for the team. Kuty noted that the trade doesn't change the possibility of a Soto deal and that the Yankees still need him. Meanwhile, Kirschner emphasized that Verdugo offers an upgrade to the Yankees' left field and speculated about the outfield alignment if the Soto deal happens.

Verdugo's acquisition was seen as a low-risk move for the Yankees, as they gave up very little to get a league-average-hitting left fielder. Kuty suggested that Verdugo might bring an "edge" to the clubhouse, similar to Josh Donaldson, and Kirschner highlighted Verdugo's on-base percentage and low strikeout rate as positive attributes that could endear him to the fanbase.

Both reporters urged Yankees fans to be patient and not overreact to the trade, as there is still time for the team to make bigger moves in the offseason. Overall, the trade was unexpected, but it may be just the beginning of a series of significant changes for the Yankees.