Yankees Rumors: Freddie Freeman, Carlos Correa Are Top Free-Agent Options

Now that the MLB lockout is over, a few superstars are back on the open market and are set to command big contracts in free agency. The two best players available have been linked to the New York Yankees, which haven’t made a single significant signing this offseason.

The latest rumors suggest that the Yankees have at least shown an interest in Freddie Freeman and Carlos Correa. Freeman was the 2020 NL MVP and the Atlanta Braves’ most productive hitter during last year’s World Series run. Correa is widely viewed as the top prize in free agency, coming off a fifth-place AL MVP finish at 27 years old.

Which player is more likely to sign with the Yankees? New York appears to be a top contender for Freeman. The franchise is unlikely to match Correa’s asking price.

It had been largely assumed that Freeman would return to the Braves. The first baseman reportedly turned down Atlanta’s five-year offer, seeking a six-year contract. There’s been buzz that Freeman could choose between the Braves or Yankees. The Los Angeles Dodgers are also lurking as a suitor.

New York has a few options at first base. The team could bring back Anthony Rizzo, a much cheaper option than Freeman. Rizzo played well with a .768 OPS in 49 games with the Yankees last season. His numbers don't compare to that of Freeman, who has a career .893 OPS.

Luke Voit remains under contract with the Yankees. New York could look to trade for Matt Olson, whom the Oakland Athletics are reportedly willing to deal with for the right price.

At shortstop, the Yankees seem inclined to sign a veteran to a short-term deal instead of making Correa one of the highest-paid players in baseball. Yankees prospect Anthony Volpe is on track to become the team’s starting shortstop in the not-too-distant future.

Correa has already turned down a 10-year, $275 million contract from the Detroit Tigers, according to ESPN's Buster Olney. New York doesn’t appear to be willing to pay that kind of money for a free-agent shortstop.

The Yankees entered the offseason as the favorites to sign Corey Seager. The shortstop instead joined the Texas Rangers on a $325 million deal.

With the decision to move Gleyber Torres back to second base, Gio Urshela is currently the top shortstop on the Yankees’ depth chart. Urshela hit 14 home runs with a .720 OPS in 117 games last season.

Correa hit a career-high 26 home runs in 2021. The shortstop hit .279/.366/.485 and won his first Gold Glove for the Houston Astros.

The Chicago Cubs and Toronto Blue Jays are among the possible destinations for Correa.