Alex Verdugo Faces Uncertain Future as He Hits the Free Agency Market…

The 2024 MLB offseason is shaping up to be an exciting one, with several high-profile players hitting the free-agent market. Among the biggest names is Juan Soto, a generational talent whose future remains uncertain as the New York Yankees navigate their plans for 2025 and beyond. However, while much of the attention will be on Soto, another Yankees outfielder, Alex Verdugo, will also be on the move this winter. A player with tremendous defensive skills but inconsistent offensive production, Verdugo enters free agency under a cloud of uncertainty.

For Verdugo, 2024 was a season of contrasts: elite defense paired with a largely forgettable offensive performance. After being acquired by the Yankees in a trade that sent pitcher Michael King and prospects to the Boston Red Sox in 2023, Verdugo was expected to provide a stabilizing presence in the outfield and add depth to a lineup that had been looking for consistent left-handed hitting.

But while Verdugo delivered defensively, his bat failed to live up to expectations. As he enters free agency, questions remain about his future in the league and what kind of contract he can command after a year marked by so many ups and downs.

A Defensive Specialist in the Outfield

Verdugo’s strengths on defense are undeniable. Known for his above-average range and strong arm, he established himself as one of the premier defensive outfielders in the game during his time with the Red Sox. In 2024, those skills remained a vital part of his game. According to defensive metrics like Defensive Runs Saved (DRS) and Outs Above Average (OAA), Verdugo remained one of the top defenders in the American League. His ability to track down balls in both left and right field allowed the Yankees to keep opposing teams from finding gaps in their defense, and his arm strength was a significant asset in limiting runners on the base paths.

In fact, many believe that his glove work is what could keep his value high as he moves into free agency. Verdugo’s defensive ability is likely to attract a number of teams, especially those who value the importance of defense in the outfield and see him as a high-floor option in terms of what he brings with the glove. Whether it’s in a corner outfield spot or potentially as a center fielder on a team needing some defensive stability, Verdugo’s defensive profile is likely to remain his most appealing trait in the eyes of suitors.

Offensive Struggles Overshadow Strong Defense

The biggest hurdle for Verdugo entering free agency will be his offensive performance in 2024. While his defense remained consistent, his bat experienced a noticeable decline. After a relatively solid 2023 season with the Yankees, where he posted a .274 batting average with a .341 on-base percentage and a .423 slugging percentage, Verdugo took a significant step back this year. He finished the season with a disappointing .238 batting average and a .309 on-base percentage. His slugging percentage dipped to just .384, which was well below league average for outfielders in 2024.

More troubling were his struggles in key situations. Verdugo’s ability to drive in runs, particularly with runners in scoring position, was one of the reasons he was initially brought over to the Yankees. Yet in 2024, he failed to deliver on that front, and his lack of power became glaring in an era where extra-base hits are at a premium. Verdugo hit just 12 home runs in 142 games, a far cry from his potential as a consistent hitter with some power. His inability to produce in the middle of the lineup, combined with a lack of extra-base hits, left fans and analysts questioning whether he could still provide the offensive upside the Yankees envisioned when they acquired him.

At 28 years old, Verdugo is entering what should be the prime years of his career, but the offensive regression raises legitimate concerns. In a game that increasingly rewards power and on-base skills, Verdugo’s drop-off in both categories left him struggling to maintain relevance as an everyday hitter.

A Market for Verdugo’s Skills?

Despite the questions about his offensive profile, there is a strong market for Verdugo’s skills, particularly his defense and ability to contribute as a complementary piece to a contending team. Many clubs would love to have a player who can hold down a corner outfield spot and provide solid defense while offering just enough offense to fill in the gaps in a lineup.

Teams in need of a defensive-minded outfielder or a strong platoon option might take a chance on Verdugo. His left-handed bat would be especially valuable to a team with a right-handed-heavy lineup that needs balance. Verdugo could potentially fit the mold of a fourth outfielder or a platoon partner for teams that are seeking depth and versatility. His ability to play both corner outfield spots, along with his strong throwing arm, provides managers with flexibility in how they deploy him.

In addition, there’s always the possibility that a team will see something in Verdugo’s offensive profile that could be unlocked with a change of scenery or an improved coaching staff. Despite his struggles in 2024, it’s worth noting that Verdugo has shown flashes of offensive promise in past seasons. He has the ability to hit for average, make consistent contact, and work counts, though he needs to rediscover the power that made him an intriguing trade target just a few seasons ago.

Teams like the San Francisco Giants, Cleveland Guardians, or even the Milwaukee Brewers could potentially target Verdugo as a way to add some stability to their outfield while not necessarily breaking the bank for an all-around star. His free-agent value will depend largely on the market’s demand for defense-first players and the willingness of clubs to take a risk on a player whose bat has not been consistent over the past two seasons.

What’s Next for Verdugo?

As Verdugo navigates free agency this winter, it’s clear that his next contract will likely come with a bit of uncertainty attached. While his defense should give him a solid floor, his offensive inconsistency will limit his earning potential on the open market. A long-term deal may be out of the question for Verdugo, especially after a disappointing 2024 campaign. However, a short-term contract with incentives based on performance could be a possibility, especially if a team is willing to give him a chance to rediscover his offensive rhythm in a more favorable situation.

Verdugo’s future will depend heavily on how teams view his offensive struggles. There will always be a market for a left-handed hitter with solid defense, but it remains to be seen whether teams will see Verdugo as a bounce-back candidate or a player whose best days are behind him.

For the Yankees, the decision to move on from Verdugo after just one season on the roster is indicative of the team’s larger roster-building strategy. New York has a number of outfielders to consider for the future, including prospects who could potentially push for playing time in 2025. As the Yankees continue to reshape their roster for a competitive 2025 campaign, Verdugo may find himself as an interesting, but ultimately expendable, piece in a much larger puzzle.

For now, Alex Verdugo’s time with the Yankees is over, but his journey through free agency will be one to watch closely as the offseason unfolds.