While Soto was the Yankees’ headline departure, the organization added several talented players this offseason. In particular, New York significantly bolstered its pitching staff, signing Braves ace Max Fried and trading for star reliever Devin Williams. As for hitting, Bellinger and seven-time All-Star Paul Goldschmidt were the headline acquisitions.

Aside from Soto’s departure, much of last year’s AL pennant-winning squad’s lineup has returned. That includes ALCS MVP Giancarlo Stanton, who is unfortunately out indefinitely with elbow injuries. Stanton’s uncertain health makes Bellinger’s success even more critical, as this team needs a formidable presence behind reigning AL MVP Aaron Judge.

Overall, the Yankees must have liked what they saw from their new outfielder. New York again enters 2025 with World Series-sized expectations in a crowded AL East. Despite the injury blows this group has already suffered, this team is talented enough to contend again. And, with several young players starting right now, the Yankees still have plenty of potential trade capital to work with in a potential blockbuster deal. For now, though, it’ll be interesting to see how starters like Anthony Volpe, Ben Rice, Austin Wells, and Oswaldo Cabrera develop as the season continues.